​I wasn’t going to write anything.
I wasn’t going to feel anything.
I wasn’t going to be different.
It wasn’t going to be different.
Except.
Except it was.
This year is different.
It was going to be my first official Mother’s Day. And, I guess it is. But, my heart knows it’s not what we planned. It’s not the same.

If you hear or read a twinge of sadness, you’re right. It’s there. But I’m doing my damndest to channel that hope in my soul.

In the light of the impending holiday, I have a few suggestions to my fellow mommas-in-waiting, those who still have empty arms and a chunk of their hearts still missing, those who’ve suffered a loss during pregnancy or after, and those who have had failed adoptions. This could also apply to those who've lost their mother or estranged, I suppose too.

1. Find your kind.
Literally, find your kind. Find the ladies who have walked this path, and those still in the midst of it. These are the folks who can really relate to the experience, the emotions, the emptiness, and the impatience. Connect with them via social, text, a call, or in person. Talk it out or be quiet together. Lend your support and send a little love on this day. It's hard for everyone but hard is better together, usually. I think.

Also, find your kind. Be kind to yourself. Remind yourself that the lack or the loss isn't your fault. It isn't in vain. And, it isn't over. Practice some self-care.
​
2. Expect the awkwardness.
People, including your closest family and friends, don't know what to say. And, what can they say? Sometimes what's said hurts more than helps. But, let's try to understand, even if someone says all the wrong things, they're trying to fill the space. They think they need to say something to show their sympathy or empathy usually because they really, really care and want what is best for us. And let's be brutally honest and self-aware, generally we don't know what to say back which is awkward for them too. Plus, if they weren't saying anything, then how would we feel? So, let's give our crew and the well-meaning strangers, the benefit of the doubt. Grace is a gift we can give them and it helps us too. Accept that the awkwardness will happen and embrace it. Say thank you for their sentiment or dive in and have a conversation if you feel so moved.

3. Eat your favorite food or something totally indulgent.
All the health experts and nutritionists probably would tell you emotional eating is bad. And, probably a poor coping mechanism. But, I'm here to tell you that there is something special about your favorite food -- be it a fudgy brownie, a tart lemon bar, a double-dip cone, or heap of chips and guac. Whatever your go-to is, make it or order it. And don't second guess it. Calories don't apply here.

4. Get some sunshine and some moves in.
For me, getting some steps in outside not only gives me a dose of Vitamin D and some fresh air, but gives me a chance to dream and think big thoughts. I always feel refreshed after a walk or a yoga sesh.

5. Love on the mommas in your life.
This can be a hard one in particular on this day. But do it anyway if you can. Tell them they’re doing a good job. Tell them what you admire about their approach to #momlife. Tell them why they’re special to you. Our relationships with other women are so important. You know the gals I’m talking about: Your momma gave you life. Relish if you’ve still got a grandma or two around. And don’t forget to love those sisters and sister-in-laws who gifted you the most precious nieces and nephews on the planet. Love on your momma friends; they are a good group to learn from — plus you were probably friends with many of them BEFORE they had kids in tow. These are our examples. These are our role models. These are our future babysitters, play dates, and room mom crews.

6. Know you are still a rockin’, strong, rad, beautiful soul that gives the world her best.
Through the monthly disappointment and spontaneous tears, you are still you. And that is enough. Totally enough.

Note, these are just suggestions. By all means, if you just can't do any of these, and you just need space and quiet, take it.

And, tomorrow, if you happen to go to church, and you get to the inevitable portion of the sermon when the pastor or priest asks all the mothers to stand up and be recognized, do what feels right. If you want to stand because you have a babe in Heaven, stand tall. If you want to sit because it doesn’t feel right to stand, stay planted, but don’t shrink. And if the well-meaning little in your family asks for another flower for you too (because her mom and grandma have one), accept it with grace. You’ve earned that flower.

Mommin’ is hard. No matter what stage you’re in or if you haven’t even got to really start it yet. All mommas matter.

For now, I’m going to be a momma-in-waiting. But I know it’s going to be worth the wait.

Until next time,
xo

In preparation for Pi Day, I bought these beautiful berries. Then I immediately came home an made a pie that you're going to want to copy. Today, March 14th is a holiday. Albeit a math related day (and, well, math has never really been a fave of mine), I can get behind a play on words. So, we're having pie for Pi Day. But, actually it's extra special because it's our sweet niece's birthday too! Thus, we must celebrate twice as much. 

In honor of her, I made a pie with two of her current favorite things: strawberries and Oreos.
Oh, and I snuck in a layer of ganache. 

You're welcome.

This is kind of a rarity on here, a recipe post without a lot of pomp and circumstance, but in the interest of all that is right and good, we should cut to the chase.

This three part recipe is mostly original,  i.e. an experiment, so I hope it will find favor with you all. 

Oh So Oreo Strawberry Pie 
Mostly Original Recipe
Makes 1 pie (that you'll want to hoard, but it's nice to share. do with that what you will.)

Crust
25 Oreos
5 tablespoons butter, melted

1. Crush Oreos in a food processor OR enclosed in a ziptop bag with a rolling pin. (I prefer the food processor because it's much more efficient). Pulse until cookies create a fine crumb. 
2. With a fork, mix in melted butter, until well incorporated. 
3. Press into 9-inch pie pan. 
4. Bake at 350 degrees for 6-8 minutes. 
5. Let cool completely.

Chocolate Ganache
1/2 cup chocolate chips (milk, semisweet, dark- your choice!)
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream

1. Using a double boiler, combine chocolate chips and cream. Heat until melted through. Should be smooth, shiny, and a little thick. 
2. Pour into cooled pie crust. 
I think technically for a ganache, you should heat up the cream THEN stir in your chocolate, but I was multitasking with dinner and didn't want to have more than one step. 

This pie is pretty. And it is pretty rich, pretty grand, and pretty delicious. It's perfect for a birthday! (Plus it's the perfect transition to our pending spring and strawberry season!)

And since I can, we want to wish sweet L, aka Baby, a happy happy happy 3rd birthday! We love you to pieces, niece! May 3 be wild, wonderful, and all together fit for the princess you are. Can't wait to celebrate you soon!

I hope you make this pie. Moreover, I hope you enjoy every crumb of it. 
Until next time, 
xoxo

HAPPY NEW YEAR! ​wooooooooooooo.

​2016, holla! Let's revel in its blankness and its possibility. This the time many of us: jot down goals for the next 365; silently commit to eating less or exercising more or whatev other way we can be better to ourselves; or resolve to somehow rock the new year with a new hobby, skill, or job. Whether or not you make resolutions is absolutely a personal choice. If 2015 you was stellar, hey, keep it up! If you wanna make 2016 yours, take action!

​Either way, here are some suggestions for totally killing it this year:
1. BELIEVE IN YOURSELF. (you can stop reading now if you want, this is enough for a great year.) 

2. Find your tribe. You know, those guys and gals (fam and friends or strangers) who support you best. Do your part to cultivate those relationships. #squad

3. Our outdoors are great, if you haven't heard, so get some sunshine. (but, probably wear your sunscreen.)

4. Put your time and energy into things that build you up and bring you joy. No one has time for fun sponges, obligations for obligation's sake, and time suckers. 

5. Serve somebody or something without expectation. I promise your soul will smile. 

6. If something isn't working, make the change. Take the leap. You owe yourself and those you love the best you. Find and keep that perspective. (on a personal note, thanks for that lesson, 2015!)

There you have it. You can now take 2016 by storm.

Wait, were you expecting 16 quick tips? Well, obviously that would have made sense. But don't feel short changed. Honestly, 16 statements might have belabored this post.  So, you get six. Let's be frank, these are reminders of what your brilliant self already knows. 2016 is yours for the taking and making. We are already on our way to being our best selves. It's Day 1 of 365... let's do this.

I'm eager to see what incredible, challenging, and rewarding things our New Year brings. Thanks for the privilege of sharing this space with each and every one of you. Peace 2015! Bring it 2016!

Until next time,
xo

Oh, and just because I love #flipagam, here's the 2015 #mrandmrsborn highlights:

We've made it. Christmas Eve greetings to all! I hope today finds you with your shopping done, the stockings hung, and the holiday plans made. If not, godspeed. It's likely nutty out there in the shops and stores.

If you're still trying to decide which cookies to leave out for Santa, boy, do I have a treat for you. These chocolatey, toffee-studded, slightly salty cookies are sure to be just the sugar fix Santa needs to finish his route. (Plus, it makes a ton so you can sneak a few too.)

Here's the scoop on a new favorite. It's a recipe from Smitten Kitten.  I've actually made these cookies twice this holiday season (remember that one batch of cookies I'd made at the time of my last post.) The flavor combo is spot on. They're pretty easy to make which is always a bonus. 
​

Chocolate Toffee Cookies 
What you need:
1/2 cup AP flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 pound semisweet chocolate, roughly chopped (could also use bittersweet)
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
1 3/4 cups (packed) brown sugar (light or dark, either will work)
4 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract 
5 1.4-ounce chocolate-covered English toffee bars, coarsely chopped (I used Heath)
1 cup walnuts, toasted, chopped (I toast them on 350 for just a few minutes, until you start to smell them)
Flaky sea salt for sprinkling (SK says optional, but I think it's a must!)

What to do:
1. In small bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt). Set aside.
2. In a double boiler, heat butter and chopped chocolate, until melted and smooth. Remove from the heat. Let cool.
3. In stand mixer bowl, beat brown sugar and eggs. Beat until mixture is thick, about 4-5 minutes. 
4. Mix vanilla and melted chocolate into brown sugar mixture. I usually put a little chocolate in the brown sugar and mix until well-combined just to temper the combo. Then I add all the remaining melted chocolate. 
5. Stir in dry ingredient mixture.
6. Fold in toffee pieces and walnuts. 
7. Chill batter in fridge for about 45 minutes to an hour. 

After chilling:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. 
2. Line cookie sheets with parchment paper.
3. Scoop spoonfuls onto cookie sheet about 2 inches apart. (I tend to arrange in 3x4 rows).
4. Top each dollop with a pinch of flaky salt.
5. Bake one sheet at a time for 12-15 minutes. (Both times I've pulled mine out at 12 minutes). The tops will just begin to crack.
6. Cool on sheets for 5 minutes. Then remove to wire rack.
7. Store in airtight container. 

If you leave these out for Santa, he may just leave you extra present under the tree. 

Now, from my Born Daily home to yours, wishing you the gladdest tidings of good cheer this season! May your holidays be filled with all things that warm the heart and soul.

Until next time--
xo

On a scale of the Grinch to Buddy, I'm here. ------> 

People, we're 10 days away from Christmas.

I'm not ready.  Let's tally shall we.

Decorated tree: yes.
Lights on house: yes. (thanks, Husband!)
Christmas music on blast: mostly not.
Presents bought: five.
Holiday treats made: 1 batch of cookies.
Christmas card designed: almost. 
Christmas cards sent: zero.

Looks like I have my work cut out for me. 

There's something about this time of year that makes us all feel obligated to do, to give, to see, to enjoy. We cover our houses with tchotchkes, trees, and more. We jam pack our schedules with get-togethers, dinners, and outings. We jot self-allocated tasks on to our seemingly endless to-do lists. We indulge in extra sweets and drinks we might normally skip. We force our families to carve time out to snap perfect card-worthy, smiling photos. We search high and low for just the perfect gift for someone, who, in reality, probably doesn't need a single thing. 

Whew, that doesn't actually sound joyful at all. 

But, really even in the hustle and bustle and verge of panic, I think this season is fab. All of the things, obligations, tasks, and treats...they exist because, all in all, life is usually pretty good. Good, of course, is relative. It's in the eye of the beholder. This isn't the most wonderful time of the year for everyone. Though, from my vantage point, albeit a cocoa-fueled, elf-inspired, Christmas light glow haze, December is pretty grand. 

Let's reframe. We fill our homes with lights, glitter, and ribbon and trim our trees with sentimental ornaments. We see our nearest and dearest, and the far-flung friends too, at the get-togethers, dinners, and outings. We run around our communities checking things off our to-do lists. We help someone in need or donate items to a local drive. We indulge in delightful sweets and drinks without worrying about the calorie count. We make time to capture a memory or two that graces our annual Christmas card which we can share with people who matter to us.  We search high and low for just the gift that will make someone else's eyes light up on Christmas morning. 

Ah, perspective. It's a beautiful thing. 

Let's all take a moment to remember that our too much means there's not too little.  This time of year is our annual reminder to pause, to enjoy, to celebrate, to take stock of our abundance, and to give thanks.  I'm challenging myself to take advantage of this season. All of it.

Let's relish the love, the goodies, the time, and otherwise.
Spread cheer or tidings (or whatever) however you please. 
Join me, won't you?

Until next time--
​xoxo

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