When You Feel Like a Droopy Sunflower

Sunflowers are beautiful, but they can be a little temperamental. My friend Beth and I went to check out a sunflower field near Springfield, MO this weekend and we were amazed at how big this field was — it felt like it went on for an eternity. We were also a little bummed that the sunflowers weren't quite "in the mood" to have their photos taken that day. There are very specific items required for sunflowers to thrive, and if you catch them on an "off" day, well — just remember they're growing.

Ever feel like a droopy sunflower? I sure do sometimes! Here's 3 things to keep in mind:

Face the Light — Growing sunflowers do this really interesting thing: They move throughout the day, so they're always facing the sun. Of course, there's a scientific explanation for it, but I think we can apply this to our lives. In a season of growth? Make time to face the light. This may mean canceling all plans to have coffee with a friend, exercising, practicing gratitude, or something else entirely. You know what gives you life, and when you're feeling droopy, prioritize those things.

Not Your Season — Just being honest, not every season is going to bring you as much life as look-at-me sunflowers in early August. And that's ok! That's what growth is all about. When you're needing more encouragement from family and friends, don't be afraid to ask. And when you're not in season but another sunflower is, celebrate those who thrive. You'll be back in season before you know it.

Sunflower Seeds — Health people rave about the benefits of sunflower seeds. And it's crazy when you think of it; that a nearly 16-foot tall plant produces seeds that are not even an ounce, but those itty-bitty seeds are like gold. Even droopy sunflowers produce seeds, so when you're feeling like a giant stalk, too-awkward-for-your-field hanging around with your head down, find those pieces of gold inside you, and share 'em with the world.

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What Does Your Coffee Order Say About You?

Hey pals! It’s my favorite day of the year — national coffee day. Okay, truthfully, Christmas is a little more exciting, but still... You can get coffee for free at lots of places today! Or you can pay for a higher quality cup of coffee at a local shop! Which will you do? More importantly, what does that decision say about you?

I’ve rounded up several common coffee shop orders and determined through a highly scientific process what these drinks say about your personality. If you’re anything like me, you’ve ordered every single one of the drinks on this list. But when you close your eyes, take a deep breath and think of your one, true favorite beverage — the one you’d spend the rest of your life committed to with no doubts — which one is it? Find it below and see if you agree.

Espresso (If you pronounce it es-press-oh) — You're a "git r done" type, with the résumé to prove it. The amount you "git done" increases exponentially depending on how many shots you order.

Espresso (If you pronounce it ex-press-oh) — You're friends with a "git r done" type, and if you hang around that person long enough, they're sure to rub off on you. Keep on keepin' on!

Chai — You’ve got a little boho in you, and you don’t play by anybody’s rules. May currently be wearing a Free People dress or Hawaiian shirt.

Hot Chocolate — You’re not old enough for coffee yet, but your day is coming soon.

Iced Coffee — You're always hot, so you order it iced. Or you just perpetually wish it were summer, and I can't say that I blame you for that. P.S. One of my first blog posts ever was a recipe for home-brewed iced coffee. Adorable, right?

Pour Over — You’ve started more than one sentence today with the word, “actually…”, but overall, you’re a really nice guy. Be careful! The coffee’s hot; make sure it doesn’t drip on your beard.

Black Coffee, Prepared at Home — You’re no-nonsense, you plan ahead, and you’re frugal. Or you’re a blogger who wanted an excuse to use her new Anthropologie mug.

Tea — You haven't acquired the taste for coffee yet, and you're okay with that.

Venti Java Chip Frappuccino with extra Mocha Drizzle — You haven't acquired the taste for coffee yet, but you desperately want to.

Pumpkin Spice Latte — You live for comfort, fall, and most importantly, leggings.

Vanilla Latte — You’re just a little sweeter than the average latte, and unexpectedly refreshing. Come over here; you can sit by me.

Did your order of choice make the list? Will you be celebrating National Coffee Day? 

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Spaghetti with Zucchini Noodles

So I finally made zucchini noodles...

Hands raised if you've tried z noodles — er, zoodles? I first heard about them earlier this year when Austin and I were about to do Whole30, but I didn't actually get around to making them until a few weeks ago.

It's really easy, honestly. You just have to get a vegetable spiralizer, make the "noodles" and cook them in a pan with a little olive oil, salt and pepper. The only downside is the zoodles are prone to being watery, so it's best if you can pat them with paper towels, but you'll still need to prep yourself because they're not exactly like eating spaghetti.

But, with a little meat sauce and some basil, it's close enough! To be totally honest, the first time I tried making zucchini noodles I also tried to make this fancy-pants pesto sauce, but I didn't have a food processor, so I used a blender instead. Pro-tip: When recipes call for a food processor, a blender doesn't always do the job. I ended up sitting in the McDonald's drive through that night reminiscing on how far I'd fallen.

So anyway, this is just a simple meat sauce. With no recipe. What did you think this is, a food blog or something?? (My bad.)

I tried spiralizing squash recently, and I liked that a little better than the zucchini. Adding chicken, tomatoes, olive oil and spices really made it yummy. As far as zoodles go, what other recipes should I try?!

Send me your recipes! xoxo

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