The . Thome . Home .

White Cheddar Mac n’ Cheese with Sausage + Spinach

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This blog post is in collaboration with Heinen’s Grocery. As a Heinen’s Contributor I am honored to bring you all delicious recipes for your families to enjoy!

I am so excited to finally share my Mac n’ Cheese recipe with you all! Perhaps you’ve seen it before on my Instagram Stories done with cheddar cheese for a classic, as my kids would say, “orange” Mac n’ cheese. What I love most about this recipe is that once you learn how to make the cheese sauce, it is the foundation to give you the power to completely change the direction this dish goes.

  • Cheddar Mac n’ Cheese with Rotisserie Chicken + Broccoli
  • White Cheddar Mac n’ Cheese with Mushrooms + Spinach
  • Taco Mac n’ Cheese with ground beef, peppers + taco spices
  • Roasted Vegetable White Mac n’ Cheese

The list goes on and on! I love that you can completely changed adapt this recipe to exactly what you think your family will enjoy the most. This White Cheddar Mac n’ Cheese with Sausage + Spinach is SO delicious! I ate it so fast I nearly gave myself hiccups.

she’s a beaut, friends

Ingredients:

  • 1 box Heinen’s Cavatappi Pasta (bowtie and penne work great too!)
  • 6oz Heinen’s Baby Spinach
  • 12 oz package of Niman Ranch Apple Gouda Sausage, sliced into coins
  • 8oz Heinen’s Monterey Block Cheese, shredded
  • 8oz Heinen’s Sharp White Cheddar Block Cheese, shredded
  • 1 1/2 cup Half + Half
  • 1 1/2 cup Whole Milk
  • 3 Tbsp Flour
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1 Tbsp Dijon Mustard
  • 1 tsp Kosher Salt
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper

You will need only two pans for this dish.  One to start the cheese sauce in, and the other to boil the pasta.  Once the pasta is cooked and drained, you will use that same pot to warm through the sausage and spinach. 

1. Bring a pot of water to a boil, once boiling, salt the water generously and add the Cavatappi pasta to the boiling water and set a timer for 10 minutes.  

2. In the second pot, or dutch oven, add the milk, half and half, flour, garlic powder, dijon, salt and pepper.  Whisk vigorously to ensure that the flour has been absorbed by the milk.  Let this sit, without any heat on – until you have 5 minutes left cooking with the pasta.

3. At the 5 minute mark, turn on the heat to LOW on your cheese sauce base.  Let it warm through for the remaining 5 minutes of the pasta cooking.

4. When pasta is done, reserve 1/2 a cup of pasta water.  Drain pasta, and set to the side.

5. NOW it is time to crank up the heat to your cheese sauce base, medium heat, and bring it to a simmer, whisking frequently, you’ll want it to gently bubble.    

6. While this is cooking, in the pot you cooked the pasta, add the sliced sausage and the entire package of spinach with a tablespoon of olive oil over medium. Stir together and within 4-5 minutes the spinach will wilt and the sausage will be warmed through.  

7. By the 5 minute mark, you can shut off the spinach and sausage and turn your attention to the cheese sauce base.   At this point, the sauce base will be simmering, bubbling and thickened greatly. 

8. Turn the heat to LOW and add the shredded cheeses, stirring until melted completely.  

9. ADD the cooked pasta, stir everything together to coat the pasta. If you feel that your sauce is too thick, simply add the half of the 1/2 cup of reserved pasta water to thin it out a bit. 

10. ADD the cooked sausage and spinach, stir together to combine.  

That is it!  Enjoy! 


My favorite tools for anxiety + over all well-being

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this post contains affiliate links, I receive a small commission from products I showcase. Equilibria is a part of my life daily, and I could shout it from the roof tops about how much it has impacted my life in such an incredible way!

For the first time in 6 years, I am not fighting to avoid my anxiety. I am embracing it, and taking the time to invest in the tools I need to bring me balance and the confidence to live my life JOYFULLY + FEARLESSLY with anxiety.

Well, it happened – I had an anxiety attack two weeks ago, my first in quite a while. It came in like a wrecking ball, and it all stemmed from this sudden jolt of shakiness/heart racing side effects of not eating breakfast, drinking too much espresso and not enough water. Toss in a crazy work week, and sleep training Max, my body was definitely in overdrive. Most people will take that caffeine high and ride the wave, usually my body reacts pretty well and takes advantage of the sudden surge of adrenaline. That day, however, my body took those sensations, overanalyzed and quickly spiraled into hyper-focusing on those sensations and rapidly resulting in an anxiety attack.

After an hour of laying in bed, I started to cry – I felt overwhelmed and agitated. The levels of cortisol racing through my system during an anxiety attack makes you feel like your mind is racing and you just cannot push pause and reset. I knew Dan had to leave for 4+ hours of hockey try outs and I just did not want to be home alone with Max. I knew if I stayed home my anxiety would manifest even more and it would be harder to shake. SO – what did I do? I forced myself to get up, tears and all, pack a bag for the next round of hockey practices, take my saving-grace of a product, my equilibria drops and headed out the door. This is an example of how to use this product during a flare, you can micro dose for headaches instead of reaching for Tylenol, or during stressful moments to help level you back out.

the new mint flavor is wonderful! the original is earthy and herby, definitely more marijuana-like. I actually prefer the original, but if you do not like earthy, definitely get the mint! it’s so refreshing! This is the balance box pictured

Within 10 minutes my Equilibria drops helped my cortisol levels drop dramatically. It was nearly immediate relief. It’s insane to think I’ve gone years with anxiety and did not have this holy-grail CBD in my purse at all times. By the time we got to the ice rink, I was still a bit worn out and on edge but I mustered up the energy to socialize, and move on with my day. And that’s just it, I had to think to myself “Alright, anxiety – if you’re not going to let up, you’re coming with me! I’m not ruining my day because of you”

Within the hour I felt 95% better – truly, switching scenery and taking my Equilibria centered myself enough and lowered my cortisol levels to give myself the ability to process my anxiety. That was my first day using Equilibria to manage an anxiety attack, and I was blown away by how quickly it brought me relief.

And then – the book of all books!! DARE was recommended to me by a dear follower, and within a week it has forever impacted the way I approach my anxiety. It offers the most transparent and realistic explanation of why anxiety attacks happen, and how to not “cure” them, but how to prevent, avoid, and handle one if they arise. The past two weeks since my attack I spend a few minutes a day to listen to this audio book, and it was an incredible source that helped me come off of that ride of post-anxiety attack worry of one happening again.

My friends, if you suffer from anxiety – or hell, if this shit-show of a year has thrown anxiety into your life where it has never existed before. IT IS OKAY! Repeat to yourself, IT IS OKAY! We are all wearing so many hats, and it is okay to feel short-circuited every once in a while. We must take the time for self-care, and most importantly if you are really struggling reach out for help. There is ZERO shame in feeling overwhelmed, anxious or just down right sad.

Anxiety will forever be part of my makeup, it will constantly be a work in progress to my journey of self care and learning how to live with it. I sincerely am so grateful for Equilibria, not only as part of my daily maintenance for over-all well-being, but for in those moments where my anxiety takes the wheel, I micro-dose and take the wheel back. It immediately helps level my stress level and brings me zen so I can process my anxiety calmly.

So, if you are having trouble sleeping, feel on-edge throughout your day, having anxiety attacks, or just feeling blah – Equilibria can bring so much balance to your system, helping to replace the receptors that normally deplete within a woman body. Helping to maintain balance to our bodies – consistency is KEY – taking it daily to build up over time. Read this article, it will provide far more insight than me rambling here. Because, honestly, I am so jazzed about how much Equilibria has changed my life, I could talk about it for days.

Also, this book – DARE – friends, order it. I listen to it on audio because the authors voice is so soothing and he has a darling accent. In all my years of struggling with anxiety I have NEVER heard explanations so thorough, and such a healthy approach to living with anxiety and taking the control back. It has changed my life, heck. The book and Equilibria I think are my MVP for 2020!

For a few more days you can stack my coupon code at Equilibria! code ABBYTHOME for 15% , and they are running a 15% off site wide sale! that’s 30% off

I highly recommend the balance box to start with, it will provide you with the essentials you will need to set yourself up for the ultimate EQ experience. Better sleep, less anxiety, so-long headaches and chronic pain – there is so much relief in this pure, potent product! Also, they offer dosage specialists that will consult with you throughout your journey . NOT a one time appointment, you can meet with them (virtually) and discuss your dosage as you move along and they will help tailor it to exactly your needs!

follow this link – and use the code ABBYTHOME – self care at its best!

Dining Room Vision Board

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This post is in collaboration with Sheely’s Furniture. As a brand ambassador I will be showcasing multiple room makeovers to introduce you all to all fo the amazing pieces Sheely’s has to offer!

Our first floor makeover is well underway, in terms of picking out the items with the incredible Sheely’s Furniture! We have a lot to take care of when it comes to repainting and preparing the first floor before the pieces arrive!

The vibe …

My style is always evolving, and I’ve learned the hard way that sticking to one “style” is simply not my jam. I love for my pieces to feel different, unique and a blend of different styles. Modern, rustic, traditional, mid century – I like it all. Let that be one lesson to you guys today, your style does NOT have to fit one mold. Make your space one that you genuinely love, choose pieces that bring a smile to your face!

The dining room vision board …

I’m so excited!!

This dining room was one that I was so ready to makeover. Feeding people is my love language for sure, and having a space that everyone can sit around a table and enjoy what I am whipping up makes me so happy!

Here are the links to all of the items we are picking out, incase you want to snag them too!

Whether you are shopping online, or in store, I think you will be blown away at the variety of styles Sheely’s has to offer! Remember, decorating isn’t one-size-fits-all. Choose the pieces you gravitate towards and have fun with it!

The Ultimate Chicken Thighs

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This chicken thigh cooking method will blow your mind, friends!

Once you get the hang of the chicken thigh cooking method (which is ridiculously simple) you can swap the spices and use this method for a never-ending blend of recipes. Our household favorites are the BBQ version, and my Greek Dill Version.

What can I use this meat for?

We use it for salads, grain bowls, wraps, and we love to use the leftovers to make delicious pizzas. Our bbq chicken pizza is insanity – layers of bbq sauce, the chicken thighs, cheese, fresh tomatoes and green onion!

All you need is a bread pan!

Yes! A bread pan (roughly 9×5) – Sounds weird, right? I know – I watched this method on Netflix by the incredible Nadiya and new I had to give it a whirl. You simply season the heck out of 3lb of boneless skinless chicken thighs, and layer them into a bread pan. One layer horizontally, next vertically – so on.

Get ready, they are juicy!

This method of cooking chicken thighs results in the most tender, juicy chicken you will ever eat! By the end of the cooking time, your pan will be half filled with juices, and that is OKAY! Let the chicken sit for 10 minutes before you take tongs to remove it and slice away.

Here’s how to do it!

First I’ll share the method, and then the recipes for the different versions.

Tender Chicken Thighs

  • 3lb boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • Seasoning of choice
  • Drizzle of Olive Oil
  • Bread Pan ( 9×5 )

How to…

  • Coat your chicken thighs in choice of seasoning. Add a drizzle of olive oil.
  • Press chicken thighs one layer at a time into the bread pan, alternating the direction they lay with each layer
  • Bake at 375* for 30 minutes – crank up heat to 400* and let bake for an additional 30 minutes
  • Let cool for 10, before slicing!

Bbq Chicken Thighs

  • 3lb boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • Zest + Juice of 1 Lime (or 2 if you love citrus!)
  • Drizzle of Olive Oil
  • 1 Tbsp Paprika
  • 1 Tbsp Chili Powder
  • 1 Tbsp Garlic Powder
  • 1 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper

Greek Chicken Thighs

  • 3lb boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • Zest + Juice of 2 lemons
  • Drizzle of Olive Oil
  • 1 Tbsp Garlic Powder
  • 1 Tbsp Dill
  • 1 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper

That is it my friends! Using this method to cook your chicken thighs is so simple, and you will be hooked once you try it! Don’t forget to check out my Instagram page, @abby_thome where I am constantly showing how we incorporate this method into a ton of healthy meal options throughout the week!

Sourdough B.L.T. with Sriracha Mayo

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Tomatoes are absolutely delicious right now, and whether you are picking them from your garden or tossing them into your grocery cart, make sure to add them into a dinner this week! You all know by now that our family loves dinner/lunch/snack boards. It gives the boys the power of choice which miraculously results in them eating a wide variety of food!

Who doesn’t love a B.L.T. ?

This isn’t so much of a recipe, as it is just telling you that this combination is so delicious and one that you must try!

First, let me tell you how I cook my bacon

  • Preheat the oven to 375*
  • Line two baking sheets with parchment paper
  • I always use a medium sliced bacon – 1lb
  • Bake at 375* for 18-25 minutes, until nice and crispy

Sriracha Mayo

  • 1/2 cup mayo
  • Tablespoon Sriracha
  • Pinch of garlic powder

Sandwich must-haves

  • Sourdough bread, toasted
  • Fresh Slices of Mozzarella Cheese
  • Sriracha Mayo
  • Arugula
  • Bacon
  • Sliced Tomatoes

That is it, my friends! Sandwiches aren’t just for lunch!

Daily Snack Boards 101

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this post is in collaboration with Heinen’s, as a contributor I am thrilled to bring you all amazing recipes to bring into your home!

Here is my guide on how to set up your groceries for the week so you can have successful, healthy snack boards in a pinch all week long!

You’ve seen them on my social media channels, my “snack boards” have taken on a life on their own, and have quickly become a household favorite in hundreds of houses! It’s no surprise.  The simplicity of approaching a snack time, or any meal for that matter, in a different way is really refreshing.  The options are endless, breakfast, lunch, dinner or just snacking.  These grazing boards are the perfect way to offer a wide variety of bites on one giant board.  Making meal time easy, satisfying a plethora of palettes, and making clean up extra easy!

Here is a quick glance at my weekly grocery must-haves to have on hand to set up a snack board in a flash!

Snack Board Grocery List

  • 6 Bell Peppers, sliced and stored in a ziploc bag
  • 3lb Carrots, you can choose baby cut or peeled and sliced into sticks (see note for storage)
  • 2 Seedless Cucumbers, sliced into coins and stored in a ziploc bag
  • 1 Bag of Snap Peas
  • Naan Bread, torn or you can find the little dippers too
  • Any fruit your family enjoys, in bulk (Grapes, Apples, Strawberries etc)
  • Hummus
  • Avocado Cups 
  • Nuts (Heinen’s has a ton of great mixes!)
  • Heinen’s Block Cheeses (cheddar + colby jack)
  • Pepperoni, salami or ham to layer with cheeses
  • Tuna (for crackers)
  • 16 oz Greek Yogurt
  • 1 Ranch Dip Packet
  • Pretzels (any variety)

The items listed above are my essentials! I purchase them every single Sunday, and prep the vegetables and fruit, and my greek yogurt ranch to store in the fridge so all that I have to do is grab it, and toss it onto a board! It goes without saying that you can add to this list, and tailor anything for your preferences.  Once you get into the swing of picking these items up you will WOW yourself with how you can switch up the theme of the board every day! 

Greek Yogurt Ranch

Mix 16oz of greek yogurt with 1 packet of Hidden Valley Ranch Dip.  This is a great option to get a ton of protein and probiotics into your dip, and trust me, it’s delicious, no one will miss the usual sour cream base.  Store in an airtight container, and it stays fresh for 5 days. 

Berry Swirly Yogurt Dip

Mix 1 1/2 cups greek yogurt with 1/4 cup of your favorite jam.  Use raspberry, strawberry, peach … anything! This is a great dip for fruit and for pretzels, or to dip mini pancakes into! 

Lunch Break Pin Wheels

Simply take any large tortilla, keeping an inch away from the edge, smear mayo on the bottom, and pair with a tangy dijon mustard.  In the center, laying horizontally, place two slices of cheese and any lunch meat you prefer, top with arugula.  Start at the bottom of the tortilla, and with two hands roll from the bottom – up tightly to create a roll.  These can go into a ziploc bag over night to set, or you can slice right away into 1 1/2 inch section for pinwheels to enjoy! 

Everything-Bagel Cream Cheese Bites

So much flavor packed into one tiny bite! Scoop a 1/2 tsp of Heinen’s Cream Cheese into a tiny ball, and roll in everything-bagel seasoning.  Store in an airtight container in one layer.  To serve, you can use in a multitude of ways.  Place in between two cucumber slices, or poke pretzel sticks into the top for a bite-size treat! 

Joy at Home

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2020 has us all spending an ample amount of time in our homes. Instead of focusing on all of the things we cannot do, we need to focus on finding the JOY within our own walls…

We’ve all been thrown through a loop this year, without a doubt. In the beginning, we thought that the stay at home would only last two weeks, and that seemed feasible. We can do that, right? And then the weeks went on, and days turned into months and flash forward we are 4 1/2 months in the pandemic. Who would have thought?!

A positive, grateful mindset is key –

I realized within the first few weeks that I needed to transition the way I was thinking about this entire situation. I recognized quickly that there were far more things that we all needed to be grateful for rather than to complain about. So, I start my day with a mindful moment – it takes only a few seconds, and this is what I do.

Starting off my day looking to find joy in the simplest moments really makes you appreciate the moments you have daily. It trains your mind to look for the good! With that said, after I do my mindful moments I tend to find myself in the kitchen. It is certainly my place of JOY in my home. I love to do a quick clean before work, and dream up the delicious food I will cook once the work clock comes to an end.

Where do you find JOY in your home?

The time spent in my kitchen brings me so much JOY! Whether it is cooking alone, jamming out to music. Watching the boys whip up a treat, while I pretend to ignore the fact that my kitchen is now a mess. Whether it’s whipping up a quick snack, or spending hours creating a family meal – my kitchen just zones me out and brings me so much peace.

I have to introduce you guys to some of my favorite kitchen pieces, from Wayfair!

I decided to whip up one of our family-favorite cookies, our Chewy Lemon Sugar Cookies, and use our new cooling grid – which are gorgeous!

The perfect summer bite! Chewy, soft sugar cookies that are packed with a zesty lemon-punch!

For more amazing kitchen items, check out Wayfair!

Equilibria CBD Update

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This blog post contains affiliate links, by clicking these links and purchasing product using my code, ABBYTHOME I receive a small commission. Thank you for supporting my blog and the brands I love so much! – abby

“Equilibria has changed my life!”

Truly, there is no better way to say it. I can’t imagine my days without Equilibria, let alone life during a pandemic, home schooling and working from home without it. It has brought a great sense of balance to my life, better sleep so that I have a better day, and relieved my anxious mind in ways that my medication could never do – forever grateful Equilibria came into my life this year!

During these difficult times, self care is so important. Starting my journey with Equilibria was my first step to making sure I was taking care of all of the stress, lack of sleep and worry I was feeling during this year. And, with all of the changes of homeschooling the kids and managing life in general, I feel far more balanced and ready to take it all on with Equilibria by my side!

“I wish I understood the power of quality CBD years ago.”

This thought runs through my head multiple times a week. It has been three months since Dan and I began our journey with Equilibria CBD products, and our lives are forever changed. Sound corny? Maybe, but it is true. The relief that we have felt since starting a routine with Equilibria has brought us both so much comfort! First and foremost, quality matters greatly with CBD, and Equilibria goes above and beyond to ensure you are getting an incredible quality CBD.

I wanted to do a little chatting answering some of the many questions I have received! Let’s jump right into it!

Do you feel buzzed/high?

Nope! Big ol’ NOPE! I am a lightweight beyond measure when it comes to over the counter drugs, or alcohol so that was my main concern with CBD. Would it make me feel buzzed? Would I feel exhausted during the day? The answer in short – not in the least. If anything I feel more energized – relieving my body of its daily anxiety and minor aches and pains makes me feel so refreshed and ready to take on the day!

How long until you feel the effects?

This is a great question, because everyones bodies are different, the results may vary. CBD results are best when used consistently, daily, around the same time. I felt better within days of starting my routine, but the full effects and feeling like I was ahead of my anxiety before it flared took a few weeks. Now, 3 months into my journey, on “bad days” when my anxiety is flaring, I know exactly the steps to take as tailored by my dosage specialist! Sticking with the routine, and using a high quality CBD is key – Equilbria covers all of the bases!

What makes Equilibria so much better?

This is simple:

Exceptional quality, reliable results.

“We’re proud that our premium CBD is fully traceable from our 1,100 acre partner farm in Colorado to your doorstep.  No fluff. No fillers. No middle-men. So you know you’re getting consistent and reliable quality batch after batch, month after month. No surprises.”

“Organically grown by our bioscience team with 30+ years experience in seed genetics, our specially-formulated hemp oil features 9 cannabinoids & 21 terpenes that work together to give you powerful therapeutic results.”

“All our full-spectrum CBD products are GMO, solvent, heavy-metals, pesticide and herbicide free. Each plant is hand harvested and the oil is carefully extracted from flowers only—the purest source of cannabinoids.  We never use stalks, stems, seeds, or isolates”

What’s your routine, now?

Great question! Like everyone else starting the balance box I stuck with the regimen they recommend starting at. Since speaking with my dosage specialist, we found I need to really address my day time anxiety. So, using CBD as a preventative routine that will build up over time was crucial. I take 1/2 a dropper in the morning, and 1/2 a dropper in the afternoon. At night, I do one soft gel before bed!

How do I take it?

One crucial step to is consistency and the way you take your Equilibria CBD. For the liquid dropper, you need to hold it under your tongue for at least a minute. I keep it as long as I can, practically until full absorption. This gets the CBD straight to your blood stream and a much faster result. For the soft gels, regardless of the time you are to take it as recommended, you want to take it with something fatty. A few almonds, scoop of peanut butter – CBD is fat soluble and it is better absorbed with a fat. Don’t over think it! Something tiny!

How long do the effects last?

Both the daily soft gels and the daily dropper have effects from 6-8 hours. As your routine continues and your body adjusts to different levels you’ll notice an extended period of relief. Consistency will help you create an amazing baseline to keep you ahead of your concerns. I find nearly immediate relief after holding the dropper under my tongue, until I take my second dose mid-afternoon. The soft gel is a perfect slow-release over 6-8 that helps me get a good nights rest!

What results have you noticed the most?

The areas that I have found the greatest relief are:

My anxiety, I feel far more level and in control of an anxiety attack if it should arise. I have never felt this much relief with my anxiety medication, CBD has changed my life. My sleep, not only am I falling asleep with a bit more ease, when and if I do wake up in the middle of the night I am not tossing and turning with a racing mind. Oh! AND I stopped grinding my teeth at night, which is wild to know it has relaxed me that much that I do not do that anymore! Pain, from menstrual cramps to headaches, I have not needed to take any over-the-counter pain medicine since starting my CBD routine. That alone is a game changer!!

If you are looking to start your journey, I highly reccomended starting with the balance box, and scheduling your appointing with a dosage specialist after the first week of using it. It is a small investment towards a better YOU!

If you struggle with chronic pain, their Brilliance Box is fantastic and offers the CBD cream that is a total life saver!

The dosage specialists consult with you for FREE, as needed, hold your hand and help you find the exact dose and routine you need to tailor to your areas you would like to see improvement in. Equilibria is the only CBD company that offers a specialist that will walk you through your entire journey!

Use code ABBYTHOME to get 15% off of your order, on their already discounted subscription boxes of 20% – that’s 35% off of your first order!

Family Room Makeover with Sheely’s

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This post is in collaboration with the incredible Sheely’s Furniture. As a Brand Ambassador I will be showcasing a few makeovers to give you all ideas on how to transform your home with everything you need from Sheely’s!

I have some exciting news to finally expand on!!

Earlier this year I spoke about how I was chosen to be a the Brand Ambassador for Sheely’s Furniture, and I just about fell out of my chair. To be honest – I cried, happy tears. It was a year long process of being “looked at”, and I really did not think in a million years I would be chosen. When I received the call that I wast the blogger chosen, I thought I was being pranked. Waiting for Ashton Kutcher to jump out and tell me I’ve been punked!

I am beyond honored to showcase Sheely’s and all that they have to offer!

So, what does this mean? Well, my friends – if you have not heard of Sheely’s yet – I’ll be doing some introductions over the next few months. I’ll tell you all about how they are family owned for over 60+ years and they ooze old-fashioned superior customer service, that will leave you wondering why you shop anywhere else. Their staff is highly knowledgable, and they are immensely detailed on executing your order and ensuring it is perfect from shipping to your doorstep. From appliances, mattresses, outdoor furniture, decor, furniture and more – Sheely’s has it all!

Sheely’s is located in North Lima, Ohio – and a second location opening up at The Shops at Marketplace in Aurora! So locals, get ready to shop till you drop!!

We are currently working on two amazing projects with Sheely’s, first one up is our family room makeover. Yes! The massive room with the amazing ceiling beams.

This space has always stumped me, as it is a very large room, with an off centered fireplace and more space than I know what to do with.

While we are about 8-10 weeks out on the furniture being delivered, I just could not hold back anymore – I have to show you guys our mood board and what our plans are for this room!!

Are you ready?!

I can barely look at it without squealing!! You guys, I knew shopping with Sheely’s would be smooth sailing, but I truly underestimated the extreme variety of styles and pieces that they offer. We ordered two buttery Carmel leather sofas – the fabric/leather options for this sofa are SO beautiful! We chose leather because it just stands the test of time with the kiddos! Oh! and we picked out two neutral recliners. Recliners??! YES! Believe it – listen, I firmly believe that comfort is just as important as style – a room must be lived in and these recliners will get plenty of use!

We will be keeping our favorite dresser/media console that we’ve had from our first home, and giving it a fresh coat of white paint. I love keeping some old with the new, and then we’ll be flanking the sides of it with these gorgeous accent cabinets – can you handle it?! Pulling this space together with this rug, accent chair, coffee table – and then I’ll be taking you guys with my (virtually, of course) to Sheely’s to show you all their insane variety of accessories and decor!

Last but not least, always remember – add pieces into your home that you LOVE. Your style will, and should, constantly evolve. Don’t pin yourself down, let yourself be drawn to a variety of styles. It’s YOUR home, decorate your spaces with what brings you JOY!

If you are in the market for new furniture, appliances, mattresses and more – head to Sheely’s! Support your family owned businesses that go above and beyond to provide you the best service!

Walnut Pesto Pasta with Arugula + Tomato Sourdough

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Behold, the power of a delicious pesto.

Remember my insanely delicious walnut pesto I made last summer?

I paired it with grilled shrimp, and skewered raviolis! Such a light and delicious summer meal. You can find the recipes, here

For Dan’s birthday yesterday we were kind of lost on what to have for dinner. Usually for special occasions we’ll order in, or go out to eat, but seeing as were not going anywhere and we ordered in twice this weekend our take-out threshold was hit. I immediately thought of this pesto, and decided to kick it up a notch and coat some cavatappi pasta in it, and pair with a grilled buttery sourdough bread that is covered with arugula and tomatoes that have been tossed in garlic expressions dressing.

Delicious!

Within 20 minutes, you can make the pesto, boil the pasta, grill the bread and have a fresh healthy dinner ready for your crew!

Walnut Pesto

  • 2 oz. Basil Leaves
  • 1/3 cup Heinen’s grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 garlic clove (or two if you love garlic like me)
  • Zest and juice of 1 Lemon
  • ½ cup walnuts
  • ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tsp. kosher salt
  • ½ tsp. pepper

Simply place all of the ingredients above into a food processor and blend together for 3 minutes until smooth. I usually double my recipe because I love to have it on hand to add to sandwiches. Also, if you double it is incredibly delicious if you do the 2oz of basil, and then do 2oz of arugula too!

Boil your pasta of choice…. and reserve one cup of pasta water before you drain it!

And then simply add 1 to 1 1/2 cups of the walnut pesto to the hot pasta, and 1/2 cup of the pasta water to loosen the pesto up. Toss, toss toss! If you need another 1/2 cup of pasta water, add it – and toss until it is a creamy consistency.

For the Sourdough Bread

Simply spread butter across a halved loaf of sourdough. Place onto a grill pan, and sear. Next, take arugula and halved grape tomatoes and toss in garlic expressions dressings. Once the bread is nice and golden, take it off the grill pan and pile it high with the arugula and tomatoes. YUM

We added some grilled chicken skewers that we had from Costco (they are pre cooked so you just warm them through) – Within 20 minutes, your dinner is done!