Easy Spanakopita Bites

This weekend our neighbors hosted a Memorial Day party which was so much fun. One of my favorite things about where we live are our neighbors. I grew up seeing neighborhoods like this on tv but never imaged I would live in one. You can go next door if you need an extra cup of sugar or hang out for hours while the kids play and run from one neighbor's yard to the next. It's pretty fabulous and it makes me so happy that we are able to give this to Emmett and Oliver.
So back to the party. When we host these get togethers, everyone brings a dish. I like to bring something outside of the predicable chips and dip, but also easy to prepare and easy to eat. I wanted a finger food that would be good hot but also taste just as yummy when it cooled off. I decided to go with spanakopita but with a twist by making it as an easy to prepare bite size appetizer. This is not your traditional spanakopita (Greek spinach pie for those not familiar with it) but an inspired bite size appetizer. You whip up the filling, fill the mini fillo shells, bake, and enjoy. Let me warn you, these little nuggets of deliciousness will go fast. My husband ate four before we were even out the door! The saltiness of the cheese and the buttery, flakey shell are so indulgent and delicious. These little appetizers are definitely a winner that I'll have to make again.

Easy Spanakopita Bites

Ingredients

• 3 trays of mini fillo shells
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 green onion, chopped
• 1 egg
• 10 ounces of chopped frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 6 ounces of crumbled feta cheese
• 1/3 cup shredded parmesan
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp pepper
• 1 tsp chopped garlic

Instructions

1. Preheat over to 350 degrees.
2. Heat butter in a small pan on medium heat. Add onion and green onion. Saute until tender, about 5 minutes. 
3. While onions are cooking, in mixing bowl mix together egg, cheeses, salt, pepper, and garlic. 
4. Add cooked onions to mixture.
5. Spoon mixture into mini fillo shells and arrange onto a baking sheet.
6. Bake for 20 minutes or until filling is cooked through. 

After filling and ready for the oven.

After baking the shells should be a nice golden brown.

The perfect little nugget of spanakopita goodness. 

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Beat the Heat this Summer

"Behold, my friends, the spring is come; the earth has gladly received the embraces of the sun, and we shall soon see the results of their love!" - Sitting Bull

Spring in the South is as perfect as it is fleeting. The flowers are in bloom, everything is green, and the warm days are here to stay. I'm sad to say I think spring has now sprung in we are in full on summer which comes early here in Charleston. The days are longer, the humidity is off the charts, and the heat is incessant. I love long, warm days but I wish spring stuck around just a little longer. The heat makes being outside unbearable at times... even I'm saying that and I don't mind it nearly as bad as my boys. For little Ollie, he's miserable in the heat, so I try to think of creative ways to stay cool and I thought I'd share some of my favorite summer fun must have items to help beat the heat.

//For the Kiddos//

AquaPod- Pierce's sister sent this as a gift for Oliver and I think he'll have a blast trying to walk and jump on it.

Spinning Sprinkler will be fun with the AquaPod

Oliver is going to enjoy this Little Tikes Watertable ....

... and Emmett and his friends will have a blast on this Triple Racer Water Slide.

//For the Adults//

Do you think this would be allowed at the community pool? I sure hope so. This Inflatabull looks like a good time. 

Another pool must-have, Unicorn Drink Floats.

Because it's 1,000 degrees outside... I am going to want lots and lots of Snow Cones.

//More Summer Fun//

I love art, so Squirt Gun Painting is going to be added to our summer to-do list for the kids.

I'm always on the lookout for a refreshing beverage and this Strawberry Pineapple Mojito looks like a winner. 

I hope that these ideas will help make the summer heat a little more bearable while having a blast. 

What We Did & What I Wore

How was everyone's weekend? Mine was busy but fun. Pierce's birthday was this past Thursday so I insisted we have a party to celebrate. Really it was an excuse to have our friends over because it's been ages since I hosted a BBQ. Pierce always complains because he hates the cleaning before and aftermath left behind but since it was a party for him I figured he couldn't complain too much. So on Saturday we grilled and chilled while the kids ran themselves silly. It was a blast. Even Pierce enjoyed himself. When it was over he told me that even though he complained beforehand, he really did have a great time and appreciated me making him do it. The one thing I regret is that I got so wrapped up in planning, decorating, and hosting that I forgot to take pictures of the food and decor. Bummer. I even went with a luau theme. 

What I Wore

dress // shoes // the lei came later 🌸

I did get a few pictures later in the evening

The adult's game table...

... and the kid's game table

On Sunday we had a free day... or so I thought. When Pierce asked what I wanted to do I said "nothing except be lazy." Since it was still technically his birthday and he wanted to get out plus I know better than to think the boys would let me get away with doing nothing, I got myself cleaned up and we headed out. Tall Ships Charleston was in town so we headed to the Naval Base to checked it out. It was crowded but the ships were spectacular. They had pirates, crafts, and lots of food, so it made for a great way spend a few hours that was enjoyable for everyone. 

What I Wore

shirt (50% off right now) // shorts // shoes

Can't you just image sailing through the Caribbean looking for Jack Sparrow on this amazing vessel?

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The weekends are always stressful for me. I feel like I have to be productive around the house but I also want to do something fun for the kids but I'd also like to have a little me time to shop so by the afternoon on Sunday I'm done. How do you keep the weekends stress free but fun and productive? I'm taking suggestions. 

Gifts for Your Guy

If you asked me who is the most difficult person to shop for, I would have two... Pierce and my dad. It seems like they never "need" anything and if they want something they usually go out and buy it for themselves. Why do they have to make shopping for them for darn difficult?!? 

I've gotten pretty good about taking notes when I'm with them and see them show interest in things just because of how difficult it is to buy them thoughtful gifts that they will want and use. I keep a list in my phone to jot down ideas so that the next time a birthday or holiday rolls around I won't be left with no clue on what to get them. Pierce's birthday is today... Happy Birthday, honey!... and Father's Day is less than a month away so I've compiled a list of gifts that are unique but practical that I think those hard to shop for guys would love to have. 

Kindle Paperwhite E-reader- both my dad and Pierce love to read. The paperweight doesn't have a glare and has a adjustable backlight so you can use it in sunlight or at night.
Grande Safety Razor- Pierce has really gotten into fancy shaving gear. He swears he's never had a closer shave.
Art of Shaving- Shaving Cream- If you get the fancy razor you'll want a good shaving cream for a smooth shave and soft skin afterwards.
Luminous Sea Anu 4200 Nylon Men's Watch- Splurge alert! I actually found this watch for a super steal a month back and couldn't pass it up. I hope Pierce enjoys his birthday present!
Brackish Feather Bow Tie- This one is also a bit pricey but these locally made feather bowties are perfection. I love a man in a bowtie.
Amazon Echo- This one is for the gadget lovers. It's pretty cool to just ask Alexa a question or play a song.
Jameson Caskmates- This is one of those items I made note of because whenever we were at the store Pierce would always show interest in this whiskey aged in craft beer barrels.
Col. Littleton Leather Portfolio- Polished leather portfolio made in the USA plus they make a leftie version! Get it monogrammed for a quality piece that's sure to impress. 

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Happy birthday Pierce! You're my rock and best friend. You're strong, thoughtful, caring, smart, and like to clean. I cook, you clean. Together we've built a beautiful little family. I love you to the moon and back.

Family Time at Tybee

Oh my goodness, it been forever since I posted but I have a pretty good reason... I've been on vacation. Hallelujah! Boy did I need a vacay.
Each year we usually take a long weekend vacation with my parents, sister, and niece. One of my parent's favorite places to visit is Tybee Island, GA. We've been at least half a dozen times, but it's so quaint and fun that we love going back. If you've never been, I highly recommend visiting. Tybee Island is less than 30 minutes from Savannah and only 2 1/2 hours from Charleston. So it's a pretty easy drive with the kiddos. We can get there without having to make any stops so that's a plus. I thought I'd share some photos from our trip as well as what we like to do and where we like to visit.

Started the trip off right.

We got to Tybee Wednesday evening and ate dinner at one of our favorite island restaurants, North Beach Bar and Grill. The restaurant is right on the beach near the famous Tybee lighthouse. They make a delicious margarita and crispy fried grouper bites. They usually have live music in the evenings. 

Thursday we headed to Savannah and did some shopping along Bay Street and Broughton Street. We strolled through the historic district and admired the beautiful homes and the scenic squares. We also went to Forsyth Park which has its famous fountain and an awesome playground that the kids really loved. 

Forsyth Park fountain { sunglasses (on sale for $6!) // shirt // shorts }

Thursday evening Pierce surprised me by arranging for the kids to stay at the beach house with my parents while we stayed at a hotel in downtown Savannah. We wanted to grab a drink before dinner and decided to wander into the Planter's Tavern. The bar is in the basement of the Planter's Inn. When we went in it took a minute for my eyes to adjust to the darkness but once they did it was fabulous. It was like going back in time with it's Old World pub charm plus it's lit by candlelight. 

The Planter's Punch hit the spot. 

We ate supper at B. Michael's and I got the short rib which was delicious and the collards were cooked to perfection. Pierce got the duck dumpling which was not what I expected when it arrived. I was expecting filled dumplings but it was more like a chicken pot pie stew without the crust... very rich and flavorful. After dinner we headed over to the Savannah Taphouse and got in a few rounds of bingo. Next, I needed dessert so we stopped in River Street Sweets where I got a praline which I devoured as we walked along the riverfront. The night was just perfect and really made up for us not getting to do anything for our anniversary last month

Friday, we drove back to Tybee and all headed to the beach. Tybee Island has a nice beach and at low tide you can usually find tidal pools which are perfect for the kiddos. There's usually some activity going on so I recommend checking out the events when you're there so you don't miss anything. This weekend was the SCAD Sand Arts Festival so we had lots to walk and see during our time at the beach. 

{ coverup // swimsuit ($17!) // hat } 

Saturday morning Pierce and I went back to beach very early with Emmett to do a little treasure hunting with the metal detectors. Emmett loves metal detecting and Pierce just got himself a fancy detector so we had to head out and see what could be found. Pierce found a quarter, a dime, and a penny. I found a penny and a $5 bill. Guess I won this round 😋

Metal detecting at sunrise.

I detect and Emmett digs... all about teamwork for us. 

After the metal detecting the rain started and continued all day so that put a damper on putt-putt and any other outdoor activities. Instead we headed to the mall and let the kids hit up the Build-A-Bear which they loved. 

Emmett, Oliver, and Alexis with their new buddies.

The rain let up that evening so we had the chance to walk around the little downtown on Tybee. It was our last night and we ended up just eating left overs to clean out the fridge and then played an endless game of Uno. Family time fun.

Ollie napping with me in the hammock. Love his thick thighs... mine, not so much.

Snow cones before supper... only on vacation.

Sunday we packed up, said our goodbyes, and headed back to Charleston. I had a wonderful time with my family. I love seeing my boys bond and play with my parents, sister, and niece. It was a great way to spend a long weekend, I just wish we could do it more often. I enjoyed our trip and love the trips we've had in Tybee. I'm sure there are many more in our future. Have you gone? If so, what your favorite places to eat and visit? I'm always up for exploring new spots.

One last thing, I hope all the moms out there had a wonderful Mother's Day. I sure did.

This, That, and Goal Updates

Whoa! Can you believe it's already May? It feels like yesterday was March but now it's May and I have to check in on my goals... ugh :-(
I guess that's a pretty good indication on how I did... not so great. The only goal I set for myself in April was to eat clean which is really hard when I had Emmett's birthday, family in town, and our anniversary plus it felt like there was an event every weekend. I'm usually pretty good on the weekdays about fixing clean, healthy breakfasts, lunches, and dinners. But 2 o'clock hits and I want a snack not to mention that after supper Emmett wants us to have dessert together and I can't disappoint him. I allow myself a cheat meal but lately it's turned into a cheat weekend. Oh well, I'm not going to harp on it any longer. What's done is done and all I can do now is try and do better.

May Goals

Goal 1: Workout at least 3 times a week for 35 to 45 minutes. We're already a week into the month and I've worked out twice, so I better get on the ball.

Goal 2: Date nights with Pierce. Our anniversary was last month but things haven't been working out for us to spend any time with each without the kids so I'm shooting for two dates. Fingers crossed. Being parents is hard especially when you're always getting talked over by children. I feel like communication and one on one time is crucial in maintaining a healthy, happy relationship.

I'm going to keep May short, sweet, and attainable. We're going on vacation to Tybee this Wednesday so I've two days to tone up... hahahaha! I kid... I'm going to make the best of what I'm working with and enjoy myself. Maybe I'll be inspired to go for a run on the beach... probably chasing after a child.

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This weekend was fun so I wanted to share a few pictures.

Saturday started with the obligatory t-ball game. I won't bore you with pictures. You've seen one t-ball game, you've seen them all. 

That evening we went to a Kentucky Derby party. I love dressing up, so this was right up my alley. 

I've always wanted a reason to wear a fascinator and I finally got to do so! 

dress is Taylor (last season) // fascinator (similar) 

Pierce has been hounding me to take Oliver for his first haircut. I love his long locks but even I must admit they were getting a little long. He was recently called "she" and with his hair wet it came down to his upper back. Rather than have him cry and fight a stranger I took up the scissors and got to it on Sunday morning. Please excuse my attire. I made up my mind and did it with little regard for my appearance and I also forgot to take a before shot of Ollie. 

He sat really well for me. He would have had a fit if a stranger were trying to touch him.

The after... including his little pony tail.

Not a baby anymore 😢 Makes me a little sad.

Later that day we did a little shopping and then headed to Riverfront Park for a picnic. We're always searching for new local places to take the boys, and this one did not disappoint. The park is scenically located along the Cooper River on the old Naval Base. It has lots of cool sculptures, a spray feature, a Naval memorial, an performance pavilion, and, of course, a playground. I bet they host some awesome performances. I'm going to keep an eye out for events at the park. We'll definitely be back!

That was about it. Hope ya'll had a great weekend as well!

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Fresh Homemade Salsa Recipe

Happy Belated Cinco de Mayo, everyone!
I hope you all had a wonderful start to the weekend, and if you're like me, I celebrated Cinco de Mayo by eating and drinking a little too much. I love Mexican food, so any excuse to eat it and I'm there.
We went to our neighbors. I brough the tacos and fixings which included delicious fresh salsa. I make pico de gallo all the time to throw on top of salad or eat as a dip. I delicious, healthy, and one of my favs. I didn't have the time for all the chopping required for pico de gallo so I decides to use the same base ingredients, but throw it into the food processor to whip up a fresh salsa... muy delicioso!

I'm also working on perfecting a light margarita. I love a good margarita but I find all the pre-made mixes too sugary or artificial tasting. Not to mention they are loaded with calories from all the sugar. I made some good steps towards what I think will be the perfect light margarita and once I have it perfected I will share it. For now I thought I'd share the freshest, easiest salsa recipe. This recipe uses a food processor. If you prefer a chunky salsa (more like a pico de gallo), use the same ingredients but chop by hand rather than using the food processor. Either way, this recipe is a winner!

Fresh Homemade Salsa

• 6 roma tomatoes
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1 large or 2 small jalapeños
• 1 medium red onion
• 1/2 cup cilantro
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp ground pepper
• 1/2 tbsp minced garlic
• 2 tsp light agave nectar

Rinse all produce. Quarter the jalapeño and onion. Place in the food processor and pulse until roughly minced. Quarter the tomatoes and place them along with all additional ingredients into the food processor. Pulse until chopped to the consistency you prefer. I prefer chunky over soup so I don't pulse the final ingredients for very long. I add the jalapeño and onion first because I don't mind if they are minced finer than the tomatoes plus they don't have liquid like the tomatoes. You want to pulse all the ingredients until they are chopped but not pulverized. The salsa should still be a little chunky. You can always add or reduce the jalapeños. If I'm going for a medium salsa, I use a large jalapeño and remove half the seeds. Perfecto!

So give this recipe a try, I have a feeling it will become a staple like it has for me. It's a great healthy dip not to mention you can throw it onto salads, tacos, and wraps to add favor without the guilt. 

If you have any tips for my light margarita recipe, send them on. It's still a work in progress and I can use all the help I can get. Thanks!

 

Emmett's Birthday Party

I just realized I didn't post any pictures from Emmett's birthday party and since I have this blog in order to document life, especially my boys(who are growing up way too fast), along with sharing with you all, I figured I better get to it.
I love planning a good party and for Emmett's first four birthdays I planned all the details. I coordinated games, decor, and food; but this year I took the easy way out. I kind of hate that I didn't plan and go all out but I also kind of love how easy it ended up being. We chose to have it at the local rec center where the kids could swim, play basketball, and jump on the jump castle. They provided the cake and decor, so all I had to do was bring a few snacks. Even though I love a theme party with cute food and tasteful decor, kids could care less. They just want fun activities and cake. This party covered those bases and Emmett had a blast which is all that really matters.

Emmett enjoying a swim with his besties.

Cake, snacks, and gift bags. 

They spelling his name wrong, ugh 😠...

... but he didn't mind

I can't believe my sweet boy is five. He loves Pokemon, so that was the "theme" we went with on what I added in addition to the rec center decor which I couldn't control. I made these cute favor bags and thought I'd share the how-to with you in case you have a child who is as Pokemon obsessed as mine. It super easy and cheap.

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Pikachu Party Bags

You will need the following:

• yellow paper bags
• black sharpie
• red sharpie
• scissors

Leave the bag folded and cut out the ear shape as indicated on the photo above. You don't have mark each bag but I drew it on this one to show where you will need to cut.

Leaving them folded, draw on the face. I started with the mouth which should be in the center. Next add the nose, then eyes, and lastly the cheeks. I drew a simple tail (just the outline) on the back but forgot to take a picture. Just google "Pikachu" to see images of his tail for reference. 

Once decorated, just open up and add you party favors. I taped each one shut across the middle of the head with transparent tape. 

I ended up creating three expressions which you can see above (closed-mouth smile, open-mouth smile, and squint smile). Emmett helped out. Can you figure out which one he did? 💕

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Another birthday cake. Isn't it crazy how a birth"day" turns into a four day affair?