This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.

Deer, Vally in Park City, Utah

Greetings from Park City, Utah! Ben and I are out west “charging the pow.” And by “charging the pow” I mean I’m trying to wipe out in the most dignified manner possible.

This is my third time downhill skiing and Ben’s first time downhill skiing ever. After spending the last two weeks huddled inside, away from the arctic blast that has Wisconsin in a frigid full nelson, it feels good to be active and outside again.

In this period of post-holiday indoor hibernation, I’ve discovered a few new favorites and gone back to some trusty standbys too.


On this week’s dinner menu: Curry Chickpea Hash. ’Cause if you like it, then you shoulda putta egg on it.

Upcoming blog recipe I’m most excited to share: Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Risotto with Goat Cheese ?

Sipping: Everything warm from this oh-so-appropriate coffee mug that my sister gave me for Christmas. When it’s not full of the black stuff, I’m loving this Tahitian Vanilla Hazelnut tea.

Fascinated by: The things our new pup finds fascinating. Top of his list: the dishwasher, storm drains, and everything that happens out our back window.

Reading (or rather, listening to via Audible): The Zookeeper’s Wife. I’m about halfway through, and while the stories are compelling, I’m getting tangled in the author’s rambling descriptions. I hear things pick up as the story goes on, and I’m hoping that’s the case. Recent books I finished and did enjoy include What Alice Forgot and Me Before You.

Battling: Dry skin. As in dinosaur dry. Between constant dishwashing and the harsh winter air, my hands are taking a serious beating. Rachel recommended O’Keeffe’s Working Hands, and now I can’t stop talking about it, to the point that I passed it around at a party because I am that much of a believer. It’s reasonably priced, doesn’t smell weird or make your hands greasy, and is even available on Amazon.

Craving: All 50 of the recipes on this United States of Cookies. Which cookie was chosen to represent your state? Wisconsin’s is a Buttery Bourbon Cherry Cookie, which I suspect would pair perfectly with an Old Fashioned.

Spotify Playlist of the Month: Acoustic Covers. Think Top 40 hits, performed on acoustic guitars by someone with a smooth, soulful voice. It’s relaxing, uplifting, and somewhat hilarious at the same time.

Feeling inspired by: My Nourished Planner, the beautiful, functional work of Heidi and Alexa. It combines (realistic) goal setting, to-do lists, meal planning, and calendar keeping all in one. My favorite part is the little bits of inspiration and prompts for reflection scattered throughout. It’s uplifting without being overwhelming, practical without being preachy.

Loving the perspective of: The Healthy Glow Guide, launched by Lee and Monique. It’s a six-week fitness and nutrition program that focuses on balance instead of deprivation or guilt. If you are looking to cook more healthy meals, exercise more, or are just seeking a community with an upbeat outlook, The Healthy Glow Collective could be an excellent resource for you.

Waiting: One more week to take down my Christmas tree. Our living room will feel lonely without it.

Have a warm, cozy weekend, everyone!

This post contains affiliate links.

You May Also Like

Free Email Series
Sign Up for FREE Weekly Meal Plans
Each includes a grocery list, budget, and 5 healthy dinners, helping you save time, save money, and live better!

Erin Clarke

Hi, I'm Erin Clarke, and I'm fearlessly dedicated to making healthy food that's affordable, easy-to-make, and best of all DELISH. I'm the author and recipe developer here at wellplated.com and of The Well Plated Cookbook. I adore both sweets and veggies, and I am on a mission to save you time and dishes. WELCOME!

Learn more about Erin

Leave a Comment

Did you make this recipe?

Don't forget to leave a review!

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *


8 Comments

Leave a comment

  1. Thank you for the hand cream recommendation.  I feel your pain.  Oh my word, the United States of Cookies.  Suddenly I’m feeling much more patriotic.  “Don’t” break a leg.

  2. SO happy you like Working Hands! It’s good stuff! Not the most glam, but it works!!!

    Enjoy the rest of your trip! xo

  3. You should add “A Man called Ove” by Fredrik Backman to your reading list. Loved it! I thought “Me Before You” was a winner as well prompted lots of discussion in our book club. Curry Chickpea Hash looks awesome too.

    1. I’m always on the lookout for new books. Thanks for the recommendation, TinaLouise! I also hope you love the hash. It’s one of my standby favorites.

  4. Thank you for sharing about the well nourished planner. After printing the sample pages and trying it for a week, I pulled the trigger and bought the planner and couldn’t be happier that I did! Thanks again!