Hi Reader,
What a week, huh? We officially became the proud (slightly overwhelmed) caretakers of 20,006 new pets last weekend: two beehives buzzing with life, and six tiny, fluffy Black Copper Maran chicks.
It’s been equal parts magical and chaotic. The bees are surprisingly calming to watch—like little golden workers, humming their way into spring. The chicks? Loud, curious, messy, and absolutely adorable. We're learning as we go: how to keep the chicks warm and socialize them, how to feed bees in the early spring before the flowers bloom and how to add more chores to the ever-expanding list in this suburban homestead. If you have any tips for either, send me an email back with whatever you have- we're looking for all the information we can get!
We also planted two blueberry bushes, two raspberry bushes and two black current bushes since having a toddler means that we spend half the grocery budget on berries alone.
There’s something grounding about this season—watching new life begin and feeling the tug toward simpler rhythms. More time outside, more hands in the dirt, more reasons to slow down and just be. This is what my husband and I dreamed about for so many years when we were dating.
We're not getting anymore pets this weekend (yet), but we're looking forward to doing some more spring cleaning and smoking a brisket for the first time on my husband's new wood-pellet grill!
🍲 What’s On My Table
🥒 Dill Pickle Tuna Salad
Bright, crunchy, and totally craveable—this tuna salad skips the celery and brings the zip with chopped pickles, a bit of red onion, and a creamy Dijon dressing. Pile it on sourdough, tuck it into lettuce wraps, or eat it straight from the bowl. Spring lunch, sorted.
👉 Get the recipe
🧺 Try This: One Simple Weekend Habit
🌿 Refresh your dried herbs.
Crush what you have, toss what’s faded, and label your jars with a date. Bonus points if you hang a few fresh sprigs to dry for later.
📚 Cookbook Spotlight
🍜 Kawaii Cafe Ramen
I just back from a business trip to Japan and I'm already craving those cozy bowls. This adorable little cookbook captures the spirit of Tokyo’s cutest cafés with simple, satisfying ramen recipes—plus a heavy dose of kawaii charm.
It’s more than just noodles: think DIY broth hacks, fun toppings, and playful presentation. Ideal if you want to add a little joy and creativity to your weeknight dinners.
👉 Read my full review
Planning a ramen night soon? This book’s miso-based broth is a must-try.
🗳 Poll of the Week
| What kind of weekend cook are you? |
|
|
|
|
|
💛 Until Next Time
Here’s to warm ovens, clean sheets, and five peaceful minutes for yourself.
Thanks for being here—your time and trust mean the world.
With warmth,
