Busy Busy May!

I don't really want to get into all the crazy things we've been doing this month. Frankly, I'm a little embarrassed about how busy we've been! I was never one to over schedule or double book, so this month has been challenging! So many things to do and I didn't want to pass on any of it! Ok, moving on!

One new joy in my life that I would like to share is gardening! I'm a total novice, learning as I go, and sometimes making it up as I go! I was determined to start my garden this year by seed. Organic seeds from Vermont! This last little tidbit, is whats getting me! I didn't stop to consider that not all seeds are created equal or for the harsh winds and weather of Las Vegas! I've taken many many deep breaths and started several plants over and over again (seriously 9 cilantro transplants!). My process is this...Each crop/herb/veggie starts as a seed (actually 3-4 seeds) in a started pot. After a few weeks of life in my warm laundry room, a seed should be sprouting and getting ready to turn into something wonderful! So, then I take the most viable seed from the bunch, and send him outdoors. In theory, this little seedling grows stronger and bigger with wonderful sun and soil!

Baby cilantro meet tornado Las Vegas! The wind has been insane this month and I've lost many of my 2 month old transplants! That's 2 months of daily watering and care down the drain! *sigh* Ok, I will get over it....This week I'm turning a corner and seeing actual progress in my garden! Hence, the blog entry and pictures to share! True, I could have run down to my local nursery and picked up some amazing organic herbs and veggies...but where's the drama in that?!

BTW I noticed a two little holes in my herb garden...I'm guessing one's a front door and the other a back door....I'm looking forward to finding out who lives there!

Happy Mother's Day!

It was a week of fun leading up to the big day! Monday, we all (Dad included) made Mother's Day cards for all the moms/grandmas in our family. Thursday, Jake and I headed over to the craft store, where they hosted a 'make-your- mom-a-shirt' event. Here's a pic of Jacob's creation! Notice the perfect placement of the butterfly wings...Friday, was spent in Jacob's class, helping his classmates make their moms beautiful cards! Ahhhh, then there was Sunday! My boys know how to take good care of me! Homemade blueberry muffins, fresh coffee (I got to drink 2 cups while they were HOT!), and lots of hugs and thank you's! I am a proud mom of two sweet and mischievous little boys! Lucky, Lucky, ME!

My pantry!

Isn't it gorgeous?! I am proud to show off my processed-food free, Azure stocked pantry! Sponsored by IKEA of course! I'm fully committed to cooking REAL food, in MY kitchen, and I needed a decked out pantry to encourage and inspire me! Some of my favorite items are : homemade croutons, my delicious almond-vanilla granola, and the Johnson family special trail mix! Lots of people have been asking me what sorts of things we've been eating lately and I've made an effort to take some pics (I need a better camera!) :
Vegetable Spring Rolls: Carrots, Peppers, Avocado, Soba noodles w/ Peanut dipping sauce
Spaghetti pie: Sausage, swiss chard, homemade marinara
Mahi Mahi tacos with black beans, and mexican brown rice
Mexican pizza: sauteed mushrooms, tomatoes, peppers, and beans on a crispy tortilla with cheese
Grilled chicken, and grilled veggie salad
Cornbread muffins with pinto beans (beans aren't so pretty in pics)

Mini quiches with CSA greens, kiwi, and applewood smoked bacon
It's a lot of work to eat this way, BUT I love my family and they're worth it! I'm looking forward to new recipes, new food challenges, and fresh from MY garden... veggies!