a [warm] touch of fall:: Creamy Pumpkin Pasta (&&a playlist for rainy days)

Fall is without a doubt my favorite time of year. I love the weather, the food, the music, the clothing, the movies, and the fellowships that goes along with it. I love that we already have had a dose of rain here in Los Angeles, and i hope that it stays crisp and cool.
Below the recipe I listed my [rainyday] playlist. I love driving in the rain listening to good music :)

There was no better way to welcome in the first day of fall than by making a dish with pumpkin.
I love pumpkin in desserts, but this is the first time I ever cooked it in a main course dish, and it was fantastic. All the flavors melded together perfectly, and it looks and tastes like fall. I don't have a picture of the completed dish, because I was too hungry to stop and snap a photo of the final product. You'll just have to make it an see for yourself ;)

CREAMY PUMPKIN PASTA:: 

Recipe amended from www.momadvice,com

+ 3 garlic cloves, peeled and minced

+ 2 T olive oil

+ 1 pound chicken breasts; cut into long, thin strips

+ 2/3 C pumpkin

+ 2 C organic, no sodium chicken broth

+ 1/4 C half and half

+ 1/2 C sour cream

+ 1/4 t nutmeg

+ 1 t kosher salt

+ 1/4 t white pepper 

+1 t ground sage

+ 2 t fresh, flat-leaf Italian parsley

+ 1/4 C shredded Romano cheese
+ 1 Pound Penne Pasta 

I.Saute the garlic and olive oil in a large iron skillet over medium heat. Add in the chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through; about 6 minutes. Remove garlic and chicken from the skillet, place in a bowl, and set aside.
II. Pour the chicken broth into the pan and deglaze the pan, using the wire whisk, until all the flavors have been brought up.
III. Whisk in the half and half, sour cream, pumpkin, and seasonings until all the elements are blended. Simmer for 10 minutes. 

IV. While the pumpkin mixture is simmering, cook the penne pasta until it is the texture you prefer. Drain the pasta and stir it into the skillet with the pumpkin mixture. After the pasta is evenly coated, stir in chicken and garlic. Allow the pasta to continue to cook until the sauce has thickened. Stir in the parsley.

V. Plate the pasta and grate the cheese over the pasta.

tips&&tricks:

     :: don't even think for a second about substituting black pepper for white pepper. They may have the same name, however they are not related. The white pepper adds a great hotness, that adds to the flavor, but doesn't overwhelm the dish. perfection.

       :: you don't have to use chicken, you can completely leave it out, making it a vegetarian dish, or use any sort of meat of your choice. I wouldn't recommend using a red meat or any type of seafood, however. Stick with white meats like chicken, turkey or even pork, or a type of sausage.

P.S.

[rainy+day] playlist::

Artist | song [s]
Jamestown Story | Ashamed
Barcelona | Pease Don't Go

Owl City | Plant Life / How I Became the Sea

The Band Perry | If I Die Young
John Mayer | Dreaming With A Broken Heart / Half of My Heart / No Such Thing / My Stupid Mouth / Heartbreak Warfare
Mark Ballas | Light On (HurtLoveBox version)

Maroon 5 | Just A Feeling / Won't Go Home Without You / Sunday Morning 

Keane | Somewhere Only We Know

Katy Perry | Not Like the Movies
Kill Paradise | Beautiful Color

Lady Antebellum | Just a Kiss / American Honey
Lifehouse | Beautiful
Lykke Li | Possibility
Bobby Darin | Beyond The Sea
Michael Buble | Save the Last Dance For Me / Feeling Good / Home / L O V E / Everything
Mumford and Sons | Awake My Soul / The Cave / Little Lion Man
Nat King Cole | L-O-V-E

OneRepublic | Apologize
Panic! At The Disco | Sarah Smiles
The Pussycat Dolls | I Hate This Part
Rob Thomas | Ever The Same
The Rocket Summer | Save
The Script | Talk You Down / Before The Worst
Taylor Swift | Enchanted
Trent Reznor & Atticus Ross | Hand Covers Bruise / In Motion
Adele | Set Fire To The Rain
Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zero | Home
Greg Laswell | Girls Just Want To Have Fun
Goo Goo Dolls | Better Days / Iris
Ellie Goulding | Lights
Frank Sinatra | Fly Me To The Moon
The Lion King | Can You Feel The Love Tonight? / The Circle of Life
Death Cab For Cutie | Summer Skin
Muse | Guiding Light

oops!

As I logged in to blogger today a sudden epiphany came to me:: I haven't blogged in a while. Almost 2 months to be exact. oops! I really intended to, however, things have just been so busy I haven't had time to put things down onto a blog post.

BUT

I have been cooking, a lot actually, and have lots of yum recipes to post:: as soon as I find time!
hope you all are doing well!
XO

B

:: One Year ::

I really don't know where to being writing this post. There is so much I could say, but really one sentence sums it all up; "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God"
[[Ephesians 2:8]].

365 days ago I was dead.
I loved being dead, spending time with people who were dead, and I was running as fast as I could to eternal death. 

One year ago, when I stepped onto the bus headed to Glorietta, New Mexico, for what I knew to be my final time going there as a student in Oneighty, I anticipated a few things; getting to spend the week with my friends and boyfriend, playing games, and just the overall 'fun' that is summer camp. Unaware as to what that week would truly bring, and how it would change my life forever. Eighteen hours later, we arrived and thus began the check in routine that was oh-so-familiar. The normal camp routine began; unpacking, eating meals, teaching, small groups, games, rain, injuries, laughing and minimal amounts of sleep.

On the morning of July 28th, halfway through the week, Rick Holland preached a message entitled "Uneclipsing the Son" (which has now blossomed into a book, you can buy that here; I highly recommend it.) His point was to challenge us by asking the questions "What is blocking you from the full splendor and glory of Jesus Christ?" and "What sins are you holding on to that are inhibiting you from either growth, or true salvation?". I knew the answer immediately. As soon as it popped into my head I began to rationalize; groping around in the dark to try to find an excuse to keep my sin, and appease my conscience. I didn't find one satisfactory, so i simply put the thought out of my mind. 

That night, the staff surprised us by announcing that Christian rapper 'Lecrae' was there to preform. I went into the performance, and after finishing the first song, he started talking to us. Explaining how we hold on so tightly to the things of the world, thinking they will give us happiness and worth; some sort of meaning and satisfaction. Urging those in the crowd to repent who had not found their identity in Christ. I knew he was talking to me and about me. Finally, after seventeen years of living for self, my eyes were opened to see that I wasn't truly a follower of Christ. I loved stuff, and people, and myself; but most of all I loved my sin.
I ran to find my small group leader, who wisely questioned me and laid the truth on me. As much as it hurt, it was the Lord showing me my sin, in a light I had never seen it in before - in light of his holiness. I always knew in my head that the Lord was perfect, but that night my heart knew it. Frightening as it was, I cried out to the Lord and begged Him to save me from myself, and asking to be redeemed in Christ, that I may submit my life totally under his control. 

" If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

1 John 1:9

The only reason I can sit here, typing these words today, is because the Lord is faithful and just, and has cleansed me from MY unrighteousness. The Lord is the one who has enabled me to forsake my sin for His sake; to hate sin and love Him. Naturally I am a lover of self and a enemy of God. Only He can reconcile me to Himself. 

He is the one who has made me alive.

Looking back over the past year and seeing how the Lord has transformed my life, is amazing. I could not have done it on my own. Enough knowledge or behavior modification couldn't have saved me, let alone changed my heart. I really have no words for it. I fail often, struggle daily, and often need rebuke. But through it all the Lord has been faithful and loving to me, illuminating my eyes to see truth, and has set a beat in my heart to love Him.

I have no idea why He would choose to save me, but He has, and His work continues daily, in ways I can't comprehend.

I just really love my Savior; He is the perfect redeemer, and ever faithful to Himself. 
I can not look back to July 28th and the events that took place that day in order to have confidence in my salvation. I look to the cross firstly, and to the Resurrection of Christ, which have secured redemption for those who believe. Secondly I look at the new heart the Lord has given me. I myself am a reminder that it is not of myself, but an unmerited, undeserved gift from the Lord. By Him I am a new creature. 

"The LORD your God is with you, He is mighty to save.
He will take great delight in you, He will quiet you with his love,
He will rejoice over you with singing."

Zephaniah 3:17

Stepping off that bus three days later, back in Los Angeles, was a whole different story. I looked forward to having the Lord work in me, and seeing which path He would direct me to, and how the rest of my life would play out.
Life, for me, began 365 days ago, and will continue for eternity. On this Earth for a short time, but with my Savior forever.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

"I would have despaired unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living.
Wait for the LORD;
Be strong and let your heart take courage; Yes, wait for the LORD."
||Psalm 27:13-14||

| Cilantro Jalapeno Hummus |

A few months ago we were at Costco and they had some "Sabra" hummus that you could try. I've always loved hummus, so i decided to try to make it. It could not have been more simple; or inexpensive.
Its such a refreshing summer snack that i love - and healthy too!

[Unfortunately I have no pictures of my hummus; sad day]

INGREDIENTS:

\\ 1 can garbanzo beans or chick peas 

\\ 1/4 C of the juice from the can of beans

\\ 2 T olive oil

\\ 3 to 5 T fresh lemon juice

\\ 2 cloves of garlic; crushed

\\ 1 1/2 T tahini

\\ 1/2 t salt

\\ 1 jalapeno; sliced

\\ 3/4 C fresh cilantro

DIRECTIONS:

I. Combine all ingredients in a blender. Blend on high for 3 minutes, or until hummus is completely smooth.

II. place in glass bowl and refrigerate until chilled

tips&&tricks; 

     \\ tahini is a paste made from sesame seeds; don't leave it out, or your hummus will not be the same.

     \\ i usually eat this with pita chips from trader joe's. its the perfect afternoon snack!

Salted {Caramel} Cupcakes

Okay, these might be my favorite cupcakes I have ever made. They are like nothing I have ever tasted before. I got the recipe from this blog, which is one of my favorite foodie blogs, for SURE. I've made them a few times and they are definitely a hit. 

INGREDIENTS:

// 1 1/4 C flour
// 3/4 t baking powder
//1/4 t sea salt
// 1/2 C firmly packed dark brown sugar
// 1/4 C granulated sugar
// 1/2 C unsalted butter  (room temp)
// 2 large eggs
//1 t vanilla
//1/2 C whole milk

DIRECTIONS:

I. Preheat oven to 350. Line a standard cupcake pan with liners.

II. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder and salt. In another bowl, beat the sugars and butter using a mixer, until light and fluffy - aprox. 3 minutes. Add in eggs and vanilla until combined.

III. Add in the flour mixture in 3 batches, alternating with the milk in two additions. Beat on low speed until combined. Place mixture in cups and bake for 20 minutes; until a toothpick comes out clean.

[[here's the best part]]

::Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting::

INGREDIENTS:

// 1 stick butter

// 3-4 C powdered sugar

// 1/2 C granulated sugar

// 1/2 C heavy cream

// sea salt

DIRECTIONS:

I. In a heavy bottomed saucepan, cook the granulated sugar, over medium high heat until it begins to melt. After it is melted and browned, pour the cream in, in a steady stream. Stir until completely smooth. Set aside to cool. [[here i amended the recipe and added 1/4 t vanilla to the caramel, because I think it gives it a better flavor; but its up to you]]

II. In a mixer, cream the butter until fluffy and smooth. Add the powdered sugar 1/2 C at a time, until it is the consistency you want. [[you may not need all 4 cups; i didn't]] Add a pinch of sea salt. Add the caramel in dollops. Gently swirl. Pipe onto cupcakes

III. I sprinkled a bit of sea salt onto the piped cupcakes and it gave it a more stark salty//sweet contrast. It was SO good. 

"For a day in your courts is better
   than a thousand elsewhere.
I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God
   than dwell in the tents of wickedness."

|| Psalm 84:10 ||

[[ Glazed Lemon Cookies ]]

Growing up my favorite dessert was lemon bars. Something about the gooey, lemony, tangy-but-sweet flavor just made me fall in love. To this day I use lemons in e v e r y t h i n g; I drink it in water and put it on pretty much anything I cook. Its just so good!

A few days ago I made these glazed lemon cookies. I haven't really been able to bake in a while because i simply haven't had time I have SO many yummy things sitting in my "recipe queue" that are all ready to be cooked and eaten. 

INGREDIENTS:

cookies::

~ 2 C flour 

~1/2 t baking soda

~ 1/2 t salt

~ 1 T finely grated lemon zest

~ 2 T fresh lemon juice

~1/2 C butter; room temp

~ 1 C granulated sugar

~ 1 large egg

~ 1 t vanilla

lemon glaze::

~ 2 C powdered sugar

~ 2 T finely grated lemon zest

~ 1/3 C fresh lemon juice

DIRECTIONS:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and lemon zest. In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg, vanilla, and lemon juice and beat until combined. With mixer on low, beat in flour mixture.

2.Drop dough by heaping tablespoons, 1 inch apart, onto two baking sheets. Bake until edges are golden, 15 to 20 minutes, rotating sheets halfway through. Let cool 2 minutes on sheets, then transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Spread cookies with lemon glaze and let set, about 1 hour.

3. For glaze:: whisk together all ingredients and glaze cookies

tips&&tricks;
          ~for recipes using citrus fruits they are usually much more flavorful after 24 hours of sitting; consider making them the day before and storing them in an air tight container.

time to [[ breathe ]]

Okay, so i haven't posted in a few weeks, because life has been c r a z y! But now that I am officially done with school I can post lots of recipes I've been waiting to share :)

Here is an overview of whats been going on since I last posted;

My prayer group had our first meeting. I am so blessed by these girls, and thankful the Lord has sovereignly brought us together :) 

Farewell Holland Family!

Rick Holland is the [now] former pastor of the collegiate group at my church. He was there for 14 years and was such an incredible teacher, pastor and shepherd. Its a weird change, because all my life he was the only college pastor I ever thought I would have. But I am so excited to now be under Austin Duncan!

.All.grown.uP.

my friend Katherine threw this awesome costume even where we could relive our childhood dreams. 

Love these sweet girls. [and boy!]

My sweet friend Katrina Herrera came HOME for summer leave.

I hadn't seen her since Christmas, and wont see her again until next Christmas, but i am so thankful that shes home. I went to pick her and her family up at the fly away :))

She introduced me to El Charros. It was pretty amazing.

My friend Emily graduated high school! I've known her since 3rd grade, so it was pretty sweet to see her cross the stage. //congrats Em.//

Katrina turned 19. were all grown up now!

Katrina, Natalie and I took some sweet convertible rides

A group of us went to Ojai for the day. 

The adventure included: fruit stands//art shows//pizza//daisy chains// and good conversations.

and we stayed for sunset!! It was absolutelt beautiful

(Pictures courtesy of Natalie Valdez and Franzine Elaine DeGuzman)

Last but not least [[Lizzie]] graduated high school last night!!!

Congrats friend :)

I love you!

So that is a bit of what has been going on the past few weeks, plus lots more sleepovers and coffee//lunch//dinner dates.

Here is a taste of whats to come ;)

Salted. Caramel. Cupcakes. 

XO

B

{Baptism}

These past few weeks have been c r a z y, so my apologies for not posting this sooner. 

But the most exciting thing that has happened was I got baptized on April 10th. Honestly it was one of the best nights of my life! Words can not explain my excitement for this! (I'm sorry to everyone who's ears I talked off about how stoked i was ;) But the Lord is so kind to me! He sent His Son to Earth, to die for my sins and take away the punishment I deserve. What a joy to follow His command to be baptized! :-)

"And now what are you waiting for? Get up, be baptized and wash your sins away, calling on his name."

{acts 22:16}

Below the pictures I put a copy of my testimony! :-)

my mom and sweet friend Lynese brought me flowers; how gracious of them :-)

Hello, my name is Brooke Johnson. I have been blessed to grow up in a Christian home, and have been attending Grace Church all my life. Growing up I always assumed I was a Christian because I knew a lot about the Bible, and thought that I was a good person. On the inside however, my heart was desperately wicked and sinful, and simply desired my own gratification. Upon entering public high school the hypocrisy in my life became much more evident. At church I appeared as a moral, Christian girl, but at school I wanted nothing more than to be accepted and loved, would vie for the affections of others, and had no desire to please the Lord. Home life was a terrible battle between trying to look like I was doing what’s right, but at the same time trying get my way. When I would be convicted about my sin I thought as long as I asked forgiveness, and acted better I would be okay, and if I was ever confronted about my sin, I would either justify it, or try to “do better.”

My senior year I started dating someone from church and thought I was doing pretty well; I had good grades, lots of friends, and a boyfriend who made me happy. Things stayed pretty much the same until the summer after graduation, when I went with the high school group, Oneighty, to summer camp in New Mexico. Little did I know, the Lord was preparing to rock my world that week. During one of the sessions, John Macarthur taught on the basics of regeneration, and what it truly means to be made alive in Christ. In my mind I knew those characteristics he was describing were the opposite of me, and began to be convicted of my sin. A few hours later, the staff surprised us by bringing in rapper Lecrae, who would be performing for us that night. In between songs he was preaching the gospel and saying how our identity is to be found in Christ alone, if we’re truly saved, and anything else leads to emptiness and death. My stomach dropped. For the first time ever, I actually admitted to myself that I wasn’t saved, and my identity was not found in Christ. I went to find my small group leader, who talked to me about the gospel, what it truly means to be a Christian, and encouraged me to go up to my room, seek the Lord and pray. When I got to my room I had never felt more alone. The Lord had opened my blind eyes to my sinfulness, showed me His perfection, and by His grace, for the first time ever, I desired to be His servant, and have Him as Lord of my life. On the floor I cried out to the Lord, confessing my sinfulness, asking him to forgive me and save me from my own wickedness. Ephesians 2:4-5 says it best; “But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ— by grace you have been saved—”  From there I immediately went and ended the worldly relationship I was in and began to live my life as what I now was; truly regenerated in Christ. He exchanged my old, dead, sinful heart for one that beats for Him with a desire to live my life for him alone. Each day since then has been a picture of Gods gracious work in my life. I now love learning about my Savior from His word, being around His people and pursuing what Christ would have me do. My whole life has radically changed since the Lord saved me, and though I often fail miserably and have so much more to learn, I am no longer a slave to sin, but can genuinely repent and find true forgiveness in his blood. One of my favorite passages is; Psalm 62:5-8: “For God alone, O my soul, wait in silence for my hope is from him. He only is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be shaken. On God rests my salvation and my glory; my mighty rock, my refuge is God. Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your heart before him, God is a refuge for us.” I desire to be baptized in obedience to His word, and as a public declaration of my salvation.

awestruck.

"And the Lord said to Job:
'Shall a faultfinder contend with the Almighty?
He who argues with God, let him answer it.'
Then Job answered the Lord and said:
'Behold, I am of small account; what shall I answer you?
I lay my hand on my mouth.
I have spoken once, and I will not answer;
twice, but I will proceed no further." || JOB 40:1-5 ||

This particular passage of Scripture has been on my mind all week; literally. The context of these verses is absolutely beautiful, and if you want to, read chapters 38-42. After Job receives bad advice from his friends, who saw suffering solely as a result of one's sin, he finally hears some sound advice; from the Lord himself. The Lord asks Job many questions for the purpose of giving Job a proper perspective on his own state, and the Lord's magnificent and indescribable glory. 
"Can you life up your voice to the clouds, 
that a flood of waters may cover you?
Can you send forth lightenings, that they may go
and say to you, 'Here we are'?"  ||JOB 38:34-35|| 


After all of this questioning, Job is reduced to silence, seen in chapter 40 verses 1-5. The whole picture of Job laying his hand over his mouth, because he now realizes he was wrong to question God, is absolutely amazing to me. Its a picture of humility and contrition. In going through trials or circumstances that are difficult, I pray that this would be my response; weighed down and silenced by the utter power of the Lords complete, infinite, cosmic power. w o w.
How often do i lose sight of this perspective! And the Lord has definitely been quick and extremely gracious to me by always showing me his sovereign hand and His perfect character.  
"Shall we receive good from God, and shall we not receive evil?" ||Job 2:10a||
Genesis 3:18 talks about 'thorns and thistles' that will come as a result of the fall. Both literal thorns, and those thorns that are trials, hardships, heartbreak, and despair. But I forget this so often; that all comfort was lost in the fall. Once sin entered the world, comfort was lost, and only the Lord can bring it back; by giving Himself to us, although I am a wretched worm, undeserving of any sort of 'favor' or grace from the Lord. And Psalm 62:6 says "He only is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be shaken."
The Lord is our only source of comfort. There have been times where i have literally felt similar to the description in Psalm 32:4b "My vitality was drained away as with the fever heat of summer."Times where the only thing I have had to cling to was the Lord, and he has faithfully been there, comforting me, leading me back to the cross, hiding me in the shadow of His wing, and protecting me as ONLY he is capable of  doing. And he did all of this for someone who hated him, sinned against him, and who's sin nailed him to the cross. Amazing. I don't understand it one bit apart from Gods grace; He would have been equally as just and perfect if He had allowed me to burn in hell the first day I was born. 
With that; ALL I can do is lay my hand over my mouth.

Garlic {Cheese} Bread

Bread and cheese are two of my favorite things. Put them together, and I'm sold. This recipe is sooooo yummy, and simple. I love it! Once again, I don't have any pictures; forgive me!

I N G R E D I E N T S:

~ 6 slices French or Artisan Pugliese bread

~ 1/4 C butter

~ 2 cloves garlic; pressed

~ 8 T fresh grated parmesan or romano cheese 

D I R E C T I O N S:

1. Place butter and garlic in a skillet over med-low heat. Cook for 15 minutes; stirring occasionally.

2. Meanwhile, place slices of bread on a baking sheet, and place in broiler until the tops are slightly browned. (aprox. 3-5 minutes)

3. Remove baking sheet from over and turn bread slices over. Brush tops of bread with garlic butter, and sprinkle with 1 T or more of cheese. Place in broiler, and bake for about 2 minutes, or until cheese is golden and bubbling. Remove and serve.

enjoy

xo 

B

{Chile Lime} Salmon

These past few weeks have been c r a z y, which is to blame for me not posting anything in a while! But hey, I'm not complaining! The Lord has been heaping blessings upon my head these past weeks, more than I ever could have thought possible; and definitely much more than I deserve!! In the midst of things I had a chance to make this dish a few days ago for the second time, and it is definitely a winner. Its a great marinade, and super simple to throw together!

I don't have any pictures though, because i had to make it on the run, and gobbled it up before the camera even had time to get out of my bag ;)

I N G R E D I E N T S 

~ 1 pound salmon fillets (tilapia works just as good too..)

~ 1/4 C olive oil

~ 1/4 C fresh squeezed lime juice

~ 2 T chopped fresh cilantro

~ 1 T minced garlic

~ 2 t chili powder

~ 1 t ground cumin

~ 1/2 t salt

D I R E C T I O N S

1. Pat salmon dry with clean paper towels. Place salmon in a 1 gallon recloseable bag.

2. In a small bowl, combine remaining ingredients. Pour over salmon; seal bag. Gently toss to coat salmon. Refrigerated 30 minutes or up to 2 hours. (no longer than 2 hours; the citrus will begin to deteriorate the meat)

3. Line baking sheet with aluminum foil; spray with no-stick cooking spray. Remove salmon from marinade; discard bag. Place salmon, skin side down, on pan.

4. Bake in a preheated oven at 450 degrees, until salmon flakes easily with a fork. (about 10 minutes per inch of thickness)

"The LORD your God is with you, He is mighty to save.
He will take great delight in you, He will quiet you with his love,
He will rejoice over you with singing." 

Zephaniah 3:17

Enjoy

xo

B

Creamy {Horseradish} Chive Bread

In my previous post I mentioned how I made this bread. I really enjoyed it, and its SUPER easy to whip up!

ingredients

~ 1 stick butter, at room temperature

~ 2 T horse radish

~ 2 T chopped chives

~ salt

~ 1 loaf of bread. (i used a loaf of artisan pugliese bread, but plain French bread works too :-)

directions

1. Preheat oven to 375

2. Mash butter, horseradish and chives until smooth Stir in a pinch of salt. Slice bread, but not cutting all the way through the loaf. Spread mix on each piece, generously.

3. Wrap in foil, and bake for 15 minutes. Serve warm.

enjoy

xo

B

{Lemon Feta} Stuffed Chicken Breasts&&Asparagus with a {Dijon Vinaigrette}

Okay, so I love good food, that doesn't take all day to prepare. These are perfect spring/summer recipes, and I made the chicken, asparagus, baked bread and cookies.....in under an hour and a half; start to finish! I really liked the flavors and the way they melded. I served this meal with a creamy horseradish chive bread, which was yummy, but i think I will just serve it with plain garlic cheese bread next time, and save the chive bread for steaks or bbq meals. I am so stoked to start cooking for summer. :-) 

p.s. Its asparagus season from February-Juneish, so i'm sure I will post lots of different ways to use this yummy vegetable :-) 

Happy Cooking!

{Lemon Feta Stuffed Chicken Breasts}

ingredients

~ 4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts

~ 1 t finely shredded lemon peel

~ 3/4 C crumbled feta cheese

~ 1 T olive oil

directions

1. Cut a pocket in each breast, through the chicken, but not through opposite sides. In a small bowl, combine 1/2 C feta, with lemon peel. Spoon mixture into each pocket, sprinkle chicken with salt and pepper.

2. In a Large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken. cook for 18-20 minutes, or until there is no more pink. turning once. sprinkle with remaining cheese. 

{Asparagus with Dijon Vinaigrette}

ingredients

~ 1 lb asparagus

~ 2 t dijon mustard

~ 2 T red wine vinegar

~ 2 T olive oil

~ coarse salt

directions

1. Cut asparagus into 2 1/2 inch strips. 

2. Whisk together mustard, vinegar and 1 T olive oil

3. Heat 1 T olive oil in large skillet over medium heat. Add asparagus and season with salt. Reduce heat to medium-low. Cook, stirring frequently, until asparagus is tender. About 10-12 minutes. 

4. Remove from heat, and place asparagus in bowl. Drizzle with vinaigrette, toss and serve.

xo

B

well i {recommend}.....

when i started section two of the biblical counseling classes i'm taking, I didn't quite know what to expect, because the topic was: marriage&family. The first thing I did when I got my syllabus was look at the reading list. Typically there is 9-10 books that we are required to read throughout the twelve week course. It sounds like a lot, but its definitely manageable, and a good lesson in discipline :-) Two of the books that I read this last class stuck out to me the most were: Love that Lasts, and Marriage, Divorce, and Remarriage.

Okay, I'm such a woman....seriously. When i saw the cover of this book i got all excited to read it because of the cute rope heart on the front :-) Before this class I had never read any books specifically written to married couples. This book rocks. It is such an awesome commentary on what the marriage relationship is supposed to look like, as God designed it, and just gives a lot of scriptural and practical explanation on how to have a loving relationship. So much of the scripture used is applicable to how we are to interact, communicate and be long suffering in all of life's relationships. Single, married or engaged, I would definitely recommend this book. Oh, and Betsy is C.J. Mahaney's sister, which was awesome as well! 

This book is a 100 page, detailed explanation on what exactly the Bible teaches about marriage, divorce and remarriage. It definitely is rich in theology, and I found it super helpful in increasing my understanding about these issues, but definitely saw just how complicated and sad sin can make things! Jay continually stresses that divorce isn't necessarily a sin, but is always a result of sin. (If that makes no sense, or sounds funny, read the book. He does a much better job of explaining it than I ever could!)

{update}

Hello :-) I am still selling cakes and other baked goods in order to help raise money for resolved :-) click here to check out the list and prices. I have done a few custom orders, so you're welcome to email me if you have something specific in mind :-).

Hope you all are enjoying this beautiful weather, :-)
Xo.
B

{instagram}

obsessed.

{Dying} of Morality

A few days ago, I observed one of the most impactful conversations ever. The words themselves were nothing 'special' per say,  but the thoughts they sparked, and the burden the Lord laid on my heart were deeply resonant with me. 

What happened was: A young girl, who I babysit, balloon poped, and she started crying. Her mom replied saying "Are you three? no. Are you dying of cancer? no. Do we have a home? yes. So you have no reason to be crying." Immediately I thought "True, but you're dying of your morality."

Can we really be running toward eternal death, by living 'morally'? 

The biblical answer is clearly; Yes.

I spend several hours the last few days pondering the concept of this. These 'moral' people don't even know that they're running straight into the lake of fire. How terrible! I can definitely relate, because like all believers, I was that person before I was saved. Running straight toward hell, at top speed, thinking I was paving my way up to heaven because I knew a lot of scripture, and because i did "good things." Obviously this facade only got weaker as time went on, and I became more outwardly immoral and obviously not saved. But then, one day, that is still is a mystery to me, the Lord, in his grace showed me the truth of the Scripture, and the sinfulness of my own heart. Ephesians 2:1-10 says it best:

"And you were dead in the trespasses and sins  in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience— among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind. But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ— by grace you have been saved— and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God,  not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works,which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them."

But the whole thought that someone literally was storing up wrath for themselves by doing things that were "good" (or bad) by the worlds standards, was definitely something that caused me pause. Not because I didn't know it was true, but because I so often do nothing about it. It was such a humbling conversation I had with myself, and the Lord. He showed me how my life needs to be even more a testimony to his word and regenerating work, and how I must be faithful to share His word more passionately and fervently with anyone who is lost. 

The Lord used this to humble me, and show me how powerful he is, and how I am his slave! And what a joy :-)

Like Matthew 5:14 says "You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven."   What a high calling we have, but we serve a God who is so much higher. 

I really just love my Saviour. He is so gracious and kind to me, and I am completely undeserving!! w o w.

"If you return to the Almighty you will be built up;

   if you remove injustice far from your tents,
if you lay gold in the dust,
   and gold of Ophir among the stones of the torrent-bed,
then the Almighty will be your gold
   and your precious silver.
For then you will delight yourself in the Almighty
   and lift up your face to God"

JOB 22 : 23 - 26 

♥

Best Bites: Southern California

Growing up, our family time pretty much consisted of either eating together or seeing a movie together. I think that has helped in creating a passion in me for food and cinematic arts. I have seen too many  a lot of movies throughout my childhood and teenage years, and the tradition continues to this day. One of my parents will usually text us sometime in the afternoon asking if everyone will be home, and what movie we should either go see or rent. Movie watching, I admit, got to be a bad habit for me at one point. I would put on a movie when I was cleaning, or doing homework, and especially in free time that I had. I am not picky at all when it comes to genre, which i think has aided to the problem in the past. But thankfully my number is now down from about 6 movies a week (yeah.......I know), to 1, and sometimes 2. It sounds like an expensive habit, but really it is one of the cheapest things you can do for entertainment, if you know what you're doing. The libraries in Burbank have an expansive selection of movies that are available for rent, for free, or if its a newly released title, it costs $1 for three days. and because I don't have school on Fridays, my mom and I have our "Friday Dates" per say. We go to a morning movie ($6 per ticket), then grab lunch and run errands. Its actually quite a nice time. But I digress. 

What i WAS saying {before that long tangent} is that pretty much, Ive seen a lot of movies, and eaten at a lot of restaurants. Somehow my parents find out about all these super secret, yummy spots. Living in Burbank is nice too, because there is such diversity. The best part is, there are SO many more places that we have yet to dine; the possibilities are endless, really. All this has lead to many of our families friends calling and asking my parents, and now me, "Where should I eat?" or "I'm having guests over and they like _____ kind of food, where do we take them?" Well anyways I have dedicated this post to what I feel, are the:

"Best Bites in Southern California"

1. Best Mexican Food:

Don Cuco

3911 W Riverside Dr, Burbank

I have grown up eating here, and we absolutely love it. The meal is preceded by endless chips with salsa and sour cream, followed by your meal, which usually includes soup or salad, beans and rice. My favorite is the fried burrito, or the shrimp tacos.

** BUT, this is of the most critical importance, The original one is located in Burbank on Riverside drive. There is also two more in Glendale and Santa Clarita, and a new one in Burbank, up on Orange Grove. The Santa Clarita and Glendale ones are not the same. They were opened by other people in the company, the chefs aren't the same, and the food is notably different. However the family opened up a second one in Burbank (Orange Grove), which is owned, managed, and "cheffed" by the same family members as the Riverside one, and the food is just as wonderful. But i you eat at the other two, you didn't hear it from me ;-)

FIESTA TACO

1110 N Hollywood Way
Burbank, CA 9150

This is literally an old house that has been converted into a restaurant. You go in and order and then squeeze into the back and sit at one of 5 tables. Its located next to a hotel, and yeah, it looks super ghetto. But, its as real as it gets with homemade Mexican food.  They have great burritos, and their tongue meat is realllly good too. (If you're into that whole thing.) It's super reasonable, and can not be beat. Its great.

2. Best BBQ

Pecos Bill's bar-b-q

1551 Victory Boulevard Glendale, CA 91201

This place is another literal "hole in the wall" spots, but i have never tasted anything even comparable to what they produce. The sandwiches are yummy, melt in your mouth pulled pork. Their coleslaw is amazing as well. You haven't had pulled pork, till you've had Pecos Bill's. Just try it, okay?

Phil's BBQ

3750 Sports Arena Boulevard
San Diego, CA 92110

Okay, Southern Californians don't do authentic BBQ well. I think my total time spent in southern states would total about 3-4 months, and I ate BBQ for almost every meal. Homemade, and from restaurants, and its not like Woodranch at all people. But this place is dang close. It's phenomenal, and the line usually stretches around the building. I always get a full rack of beef ribs and leave drenched in sauce. We always buy two bottles of their sauce to take home,  until we go again. Your life will be changed, forever

3. Best Deli's

Handy Market  

2514 West Magnolia Boulevard
Burbank, CA 91505-3029

By a display of common grace, I live two blocks from here. They have a deli with all kinds of meat, and the best bacon you can find, guaranteed. Its thick, fresh, never frozen, amazing strips of bacon. They have all different kinds of meats and cheeses they will slice for you, fresh off the "block." On Saturdays, they do a out side bbq and grill literally all day. There is quite a line, but the bbq sandwiches, ribs, or anything, is SO worth it. They also have amazing paninis any day of the week; my favorite is the chicken panini. You will never buy 

Hillshire farms again.

Monte Carlo

3103 West Magnolia Boulevard
Burbank, California 91505

I have been going here.....forever. It was my brothers favorite place when we were little, and I've always loved it. It is a restaurant (Pinocchio's) connected to a deli (Monte Carlo).  They serve homemade Italian pizzas, lasagna, salads, and sandwiches.  It has two dimly lit rooms, that are very intimate, and you could spend forever just sitting and talking to friends.  The deli however; which shares a wall with the restaurant, and is run by the same people, is awesome! They have all kinds of fresh cheeses and meats, that you cant find anywhere else locally (and their prices are SUPER reasonable). Plus they have super yummy gelato. I would definitely recommend a visit here.

4. Best Cafe's

Portos

315 North Brand Boulevard
Glendale, CA 91203-2303

---and---

3614 West Magnolia Boulevard
Burbank, CA 91505-2913

Of all the places that I recommend people to go, Porto's is definitely one place that pops up the most! Porto's is a Cuban bakery, that serves fresh sandwiches, breads, pastries, coffee and smoothies. Seriously, this place is one in a million. My favorite things are; potato balls (GAH!), chocolate croissant, and the torta de pollo (on a croissant instead of French Bread). They have outdoor seating, and its a great place for a chat with a friend, or taking time to think by having lunch by yourself. I can not say enough good things about this place. Ask anyone who has been and they'll tell you the same! So either go now, or come over to my house, and we can walk and eat. YUM.

Aroma

4360 Tujunga Avenue
San Fernando Valley, CA 91604

Oh Aroma. Where to start. I feel like everyone I know has been there, but then at the same time, so many of my friends haven't. I absolutely LOVE this place. It reminds me of Grace Church so much, because I have never been, and not seen at least two people from around grace, :-) YAY! But this cafe is a converted house, with mostly outdoor seating. They serve all kinds of yummy wraps, desserts, coffees, teas, smoothies, salads, panini's. Whenever I want to have lunch with a friend, and really have a nice place to talk and relax, I would hands down pick here. This place is so magical, and the food never gets old! 

5. Best Italian

Tony's Bella Vista 

3116 W Magnolia Blvd 

Burbank, CA 91505-3045

I have been eating here my whole life. Every time we would have dinner with a bunch of people at my grandmas house, we would order pizza and a salad from here. They have, I think, some of the best pizza in so cal. Its such a cozy, cute Italian restaurant. They serve pizza, salad, pastas, and other stuff........Moment of truth, Ive never had anything other than the pizza and the salad. If it ain't broke, don't fix it....right? But seriously, i love Tony's and would definitely recommend it. 

There are SO many other places that I have in mind, and would mention if only my fingers weren't so tired. but maybe I'll do this again :-) I hope you enjoy any of these places that you go, and let me know what you guys think!

enjoy

xo

B