Happy Valentine’s Day! ❤️💕 I hope you’re able to enjoy something you love today, even if that simply means treating yourself. You deserve that.

February has been busy, and somehow it’s flying by. It’s been especially chilly too, so I’ve been spending plenty of time snuggled up inside. This month has also turned into a bit of an art-focused season for me as my 28 February Flowers challenge continues. It’s been so much fun and has definitely kept me on my toes. There have been a few wins, a few lessons learned, and yes, a couple flops. That’s the nature of a challenge, right?

What I can say is that I’m enjoying this one more than any I’ve done in the past. My studio is slowly filling up with flower paintings, which feels especially lovely when everything outside is gray and snow-covered. It’s like building my own little early spring indoors. And the best part? I’m only halfway through.

I’ve also realized there’s something really hopeful about painting flowers in February. When everything outside feels dormant, and the world itself can feel a little heavy, I get to create color, joy, and life inside these four studio walls. There’s something powerful about that. It feels important.

And maybe it’s not art for you. Maybe it’s baking, knitting, writing poetry, building a birdhouse, or tending to your houseplants. Whatever it is, we all need those small things that make our hearts flutter and quietly sprinkle in a little hope. I suppose that’s what this month has been teaching me.
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In addition to all of that, I have a couple of new recipes on the blog this week, which you’ll find below. I also gave my White Chicken Chili a little refresh. It’s been on the blog for years, but it remains one of my favorite soup recipes. Cozy, hearty, and perfect for this time of year. And if you’re in the mood for something sweet, you could always whip up a batch of Kitchen Sink Cookies for dessert.
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What I’m Loving This Week

• I had a bright red cardinal at the bird feeder attached to my window this week, and I shared a little video on Instagram. It’s such a simple thing, but it brought me so much joy. I received quite a few questions about the feeder. I’ve had this style for about three years now, and it’s been wonderful. The only thing to keep in mind is that it can take a little time for the birds to find it, so patience is key. Once they do, though, it’s such a treat.
• I’ve also been listening to my jazz playlist a lot lately. There’s something about it that’s just hitting all the right notes for me. Whether I’m in the kitchen or in the studio, it’s become my go-to soundtrack. It makes everything feel just a little more relaxed and intentional.
• And finally, kind of randomly, I bought a package of Andes mints and my goodness, they really hit the spot. Now I can’t seem to get enough of them. I may or may not be a couple of packages in at this point. But they’re small, so that hardly counts… right?
• And for anyone who shares my love of Father Brown and Sister Boniface, I have good news. There’s a new season of Father Brown! A few weeks ago I caught up on the most recent episodes (I still have a few older seasons to work through), and I had no idea Season 13 was on its way. But it’s here! What a gift.

What's on the Blog This Week

​Valentine’s Day Kitchen Sink Cookies - NEW!

These Valentine’s Day Kitchen Sink Cookies are loaded with chocolate chips, pretzels, potato chips, toffee bits, and festive candy. They’re easy to make, completely customizable, and bake up with crisp edges and chewy centers. Perfect for Valentine’s Day baking, cookie exchanges, or gifting to friends and neighbors.

​White Chicken Chili​

If you love comforting dinners that feel homemade but not fussy, this White Chicken Chili is a great choice. It’s a slow cooker recipe with simple prep and big payoff, using everyday ingredients that work beautifully together. Warm, savory, and easy to serve for a group, it’s a recipe that fits right into cozy season cooking.

​Lettuce Taco Cups - NEW!

These Taco Lettuce Cups are a fresh and easy take on classic tacos, featuring seasoned ground beef, salsa, corn, melted cheese, and crisp Bibb lettuce. This simple, customizable recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, casual entertaining, or changing up taco night with minimal effort.
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​Breakfast Strata Cups​

Discover the joy of easy, delicious mornings with these Breakfast Strata Cups! Perfect for quick meal prep, these individual servings of egg, cheese, sausage, and freshveggies are a delightful twist on traditional breakfast recipes. Ideal for brunch parties or a family-friendly breakfast, these strata cups are not just tasty but also a visually appealing way to start your day.

​Raspberry Cheesecake Martini​

Looking for a unique cocktail recipe? This Raspberry Cheesecake Martini is a decadent mix of creamy liqueurs and fruity flavors, mimicking the beloved dessert. Ideal for Valentine’s Day, date nights, or when you need a sweet, creamy cocktail to impress your guests.