Friday Thoughts
Almost two months since my last Friday Thoughts post? Say it isn’t so! Ha. Actually you probably didn’t notice, but I did! I’ve been storing up all these weird but necessary thoughts to share with you.
Today it’s somewhat light-hearted and random, but these are the thoughts burning a hole in my brain (and in my Evernote app which is where I jot them down when they come to me at 3 a.m.).
1) Mascara Thoughts: not earth-shattering, I know, but I have strong opinions on mascara. I’ve used L’Oreal Voluminous Waterproof (color: black) mascara forever. Forever, forever. Recently I decided to live on the edge and try L’Oreal Voluminous Lash Paradise aff. link (always waterproof, always), and, well, I love it. Very much.
But the most amazing part? Using the lash paradise for the first coat and then my much-loved voluminous for a couple top coats is pure magic. I don’t use any type of lash boosters or serums, and my eyelashes are very average, but I’m telling you, this combo is pretty awesome. Favorite mascara? Spill it!
2) Podcast Thoughts: I’ve talked about several of my favorite podcasts before in my newsletter, but the last couple months I’ve been obsessed with Malcolm Gladwell’s Revisionist History. Not only is his voice kind of mesmerizing, but the content is fascinating. FASCINATING. I listen to it while I exercise in the mornings (and sometimes while I clean my house), and I often find myself just standing there (take that, lunges!) because I’m so caught up in the story. The civil rights episodes in season 2 are eye opening to say the least, and I loved the “McDonald’s Broke My Heart” one, too. My advice? Make sure you have a friend who listens, too, so you can talk about it! Share any of your favorite podcasts below – I’m always looking for good recommendations!
3) Summer Thoughts: After this post on summer schedules, I’m happy to report that halfway in, summer is going pretty well. We had close to two weeks of travel/family reunions thrown in so far, but the daily jobs vs weekly jobs system is running pretty smoothly! The older boys started their flag selling business and are working their teenager buns off selling them door-to-door, at farmer’s markets and online.
My kids, of course, wish they were doing this every day, but no such luck.
We’ve had some ups and downs (and waaaay too many late nights for everyone – thanks a lot World Cup and American Ninja Warrior), but I think I like this system.
We’ve been really busy on our property setting up watering systems for fruit trees and raspberries, raising baby chicks and introducing them to our existing flock, keeping all the other animals fed, and spending time working on some inside/life skills (cooking, teaching my 8-year old how to sew a pillowcase at his request, mini entrepreneur plans, and increasing typing speed, to name a few!)…and I feel like summer is flying by! How are your summer schedules going???
4) Honey Slip Thoughts: I needed some serious help for a see-through dress situation (so pretty but even with the lining, it is eye-poppingly see through) and remembered my friend, Corinne, recommending the honey slip. After ordering, wearing, and crying from happiness, my main thought is: why haven’t I ordered one of these before now?
Not only did it solve my too-old-to-show-undies dress problem, but I have a feeling it’s going to become a staple of my Sunday under-wardrobe. Comfy, simple, and kind of a lifesaver.
5) Cookie Thoughts: I know you’ll probably roll your eyes thinking I’m dramatic, but I legit made some of the best cookies of my life last month. And then I made them again and again. And I took them to a family reunion and made my friends eat them, and the consensus is: life changing cookies are coming to this blog SOON. Here’s the dilemma. I already have a fantastically delicious and easy pie recipe typed up and scheduled to be posted Monday. How badly do you want this cookie recipe? lmk and I’ll see what I can do. 🙂
Later, skaters! Thanks for being here.
And as always, tell me all your OWN thoughts below. I love them. Each and every one.
383 Comments on “Friday Thoughts”
What ingredients are in the cookie?
Want the cookie recipe
Brilliant recipe! I’ve adopted it as my go-to and it couldn’t be easier.
Oops, I thought I was still on the Perfect Chocolate Chip Cookie page. This one is next on my list. 😉
Summer has flown by! I’ve also realized i need to make checking your blog more of a habit. As for Podcasts, see below for my regular listens.
Talk to me Tayla*
The 8 Cow Life*
Better than happy*
Happier in Hollywood
Happier with Gretchen Rubin
School of Greatness with Lewis Howe’s
The cultural Hall
Loveumentary
Awesome with Alison*
The rich Roll podcast, specifically the one with John McAvoy
3 in 30 Takeaways for Mom’s*
Geneaolgy guys
Genealogy gems
Side hustle school*
We’ve roadtripped with the kids this summer, and they love the following Podcasts:
Circle Round from WBUR
Sparkle Stories
Reading bug
For Apple products,Overcast is the best podcast app, and for my Android phone, PocketCasts ($5) is the best. Hat tip- speed up the podcast and you can listen to more!
Also, would love to hear you as a guest on some of the above Podcasts! (The ones with asterisk might be good…)
5) Cookie Thoughts: I know you’ll probably roll your eyes thinking I’m dramatic, but I legit made some of the best cookies of my life last month. And then I made them again and again. And I took them to a family reunion and made my friends eat them, and the consensus is: life changing cookies are coming to this blog SOON. Here’s the dilemma. I already have a fantastically delicious and easy pie recipe typed up and scheduled to be posted Monday. How badly do you want this cookie recipe? lmk and I’ll see what I can do.
Hand it over, Mel . . . PLEASE!!!
I posted them weeks ago! https://www.melskitchencafe.com/smores-chocolate-chip-cookies/
I just listened to “McDonalds Broke My Heart.”
ARE YOU WORKING ON A BEEF TALLOW FRENCH FRY YET?!!!!!!! Please do! And please post soon. I love French fries, and I am prepared to be amazed!
(Thanks for the podcast recommendation 🙂 If you like British humor you should check out Cumberbin’s Treasure. It’s was a comedy radio show about some airline pilots. (They really like cheese, if food is required in your podcasts 🙂 ) They don’t make new episodes anymore, but all 27 they did are on there and they are hilarious.)
Just wanted to let you know that your Friday thoughts posts are some of my favorite. Thanks for being so willing to share, it really feels like I’m just having a nice conversation with a friend
My eyes have become really sensitive to mascara in the last few years (my eyeballs feel super dry; the skin is fine but I end up perpetually squinting which defeats the benefits of mascara making me look more awake)! I first tried natural mascaras but ended up with the same problem – finally found “tubing” mascaras, which coat your lashes like a tube and slide off when wet (no makeup remover necessary). I first tried the more-expensive Blinc option but found it flaked a lot; someone recommended L’Oreal Paris Double Extend Beauty Tubes and it’s way cheaper and stays on better. Still very slightly irritating but right now it’s the best thing I’ve found!
Favorite mascara?
Thrive Causemetics. Liquid Lash extensions Mascara. All natural, plant based and for every product purchased, one is donated to help a woman thrive. Magical lengthening, no smudges and washes off so easily! The best. Ever. Worth every penny!
https://thrivecausemetics.com/pages/our-story
Hi Mel,
Beautiful photo of the chicks. It captures something poignant, and there is a vulnerability in their youthful energy.
Your family is also lovely in their human youthful exuberance. A captured moment of sheer joy;)
PS: I made 2 of your posted cookie recipes tonight; perfect chocolate chip, and the smores chocolate chip. Harder to tell when smores were done. Followed recipe exactly. I have purchased marshmallow bits in Target and in my local grocery in Los Angeles, a Kroger store.
Thanks for the inspiration; we’ll see how the reactions are tomorrow when my son takes them to his office.
Carol
Dear amazing Mel…
Just want you to know that if I want a recipe to turn out well, you’re my go to!
Just want to know if it is against your religion to post 2 recipes…the cookies and the pie? haha Thanks for your cute blog and amazing life. Your family and life are so fun to follow Jerianne Hanks from California
Podcast recs:
Glorious in the Mundane
What Should I Read Next?
Happier with Gretchen Rubin
Bridgetown Audio Podcast
That Sounds Fun with Annie F. Downs
The 1-3-20 Podcast
My favorite podcasts about motherhood are 3 in 30 takeaways for moms, power of moms, power of families, and extraordinary moms. Very insightful and inspiring and leave me with new motivation to keep trying!
I can’t wait to try those cookies! I’ve been looking for a new recipe but nothing has been speaking to me lately. I whipped up a regular chocolate chip batch for the 4th and threw in lots of different chocolates. They were tasty of course but I want to try those above stat! The Summer is going well but it’s almost over. My kids start school on August 1. It’s so crazy. 8 fast weeks of Summer is all they had.
I’m all about random thoughts! My brain is full of them. Happy Weekend!
Has the recipe been posted yet? Please paste a link if so as I can’t find it. Than you!
https://www.melskitchencafe.com/smores-chocolate-chip-cookies/
Cookie recipe STAT & please
Waiting….
I need the cookie recipe!
Podcasts: This American life, how I built thus, StoryCorps (fave!), the moth, snap judgement (also incredible), the life coach school with Brooke Castillo, 3 in 30 takeaways for moms, up first, help me understand the Book of Mormon, the way I heard it with mike Rowe,
Thanks for all the recommendations!
You can keep your pie recipe…who needs “dead fruit”? 🙂
I’m (impatiently) waiting for the new cookie recipe…
Can’t wait to add it to my collection–and see how it compares.
I LOVE revisionist history too! Another favorite is 30 for 30, but beware the Wrigley Field episode, soooo much swearing (I don’t mind swearing but even my fluent-in-swearing husband walked into the room and said, “woah” when I was just two minutes into the episode).
Mr. Big mascara has been my most favorite find! It’s around $25 at Ulta but it’s lasted almost a year and I’ve gotten several compliments on my eyelashes, which has never happened before. I started using the R+F lash boosting serum stuff at the same time though but my eyelashes were under average.
Off topic, have you tried Native Deoderant? It’s my favorite natural deoderant. It ALMOST holds up to summers in the south but I just switch to an OTC brand for June-August then it’s back to Native. It’s the only brand I’ve tried that lasts all day.
Thanks for posting all your amazing recipes, I love your blog!
Thanks for the tips!
I second the Native deodorant! Love it!! Vanilla coconut is lovely!
Pretty cool that Jennifer Garner uses your pizza recipe and posted it on her instagram page!
And that it’s now posted on People.com!
I know, crazy, huh?
Cookie recipe? Easy and delicious? Yes, please share!
Poscasts-How I Built This ( very interesting to find out how people built their companies, like Kate Spade, Patagonia, Cliff Bar, 5 Guys, etc etc etc…
The Dave Ramsey Show-My favorite!!!!
Trump Inc (crazy to learn more about him and the people that work closely with him, kinda scary!)
Lettuce Explain (Healthy eating, exercising, interesting studies about food, facts etc)
Thanks for the recommendations, Audrey!
Cookies. Yes!
Coming SOON! Like, in a few hours. 🙂
Hey there, I love your Friday thoughts! So random question, have you found a typing proga you like? I need to get Zac going on that but haven’t found one I love yet! Thanks Mel! PS congrats on the shout out from Jennifer Garner, how cool is that?!
*program
Hey cute Pam! So my boys have been using typing.com (but their favorite part is nitro type which is a website/game that is linked to on typing.com).
Awesome! Thanks Mel!
Yes. Cookies. Yes!
Sounds like a wonderful summer!! Darling family! 3 of your boys look like triplets!
Haha, I know…their heights are almost exactly the same (much to the chagrin of my 12-year old who is the oldest of the three)
Hey Mel,
L00king forward to the pie recipe since one of my goals this summer is to make crust from scratch (yes I have been watching your video) and to make several pies. In terms of mascara, I think of myself as pretty experienced since I have white blonde eyelashes naturally and refuse to leave the house without mascara on. My hands down favorite is Maybelline Full ‘N Soft washable mascara. Creates really full lashes and feels soft on lashes.
Love the mascara recommendation, Kendall! Thanks! And I have a couple more summer pies coming your way! One of them is just a graham cracker crust, but I bet you could use a homemade crust, too!
You CAN NOT tease us like that….. bring on the recipe!
I know, sorry! It’ll be up today sometime!
Monica Packer – About Progress
Preston Pugmire – Next Level Life
Thanks, Maria!
The kiddos want to make those cookies pronto! I’m thinking a no-bake cookie (i.e., please let’s not turn on the oven–I’m already burning up!) would make more sense, but just looking at your cookie pic has my mouth watering too!! Worth it!
Yeah, it’s definitely a baked cookie, but I promise it’s worth it. I’ll be getting the recipe up today!
In terms of favorite podcasts This American Life is hands down the best storytelling I’ve ever listened to. Malcolm Gladwell has contributed several stories to it. Some of their other series like Serial and S-town are also addicting. There is some language, but they bleep it on the website version, not always on the podcast version.
I love the podcasts that have great storytelling! Thanks for the recs!
I love your Friday thoughts. We currently have two flocks: babies and old ladies. What’s your strategy for merging your flocks? We have them separated with chicken wire right now, but it would be super convenient to have them living in the same coop. I’m worried the big girls will attack the littles!
Can’t wait to try those amazing looking cookies!
Oh boy, the integration of my chicks with my established flock could take up a whole series of posts! But I have a feeling only you and I would be interested in the details. Haha. Basically I have an existing chicken coop that has a small door going out into a fenced in chicken run (pretty big). When the chicks were mostly feathered and could manage the cooler nights (back in May), I put a smaller chicken coop (that I bought for cheap at our local farm supply store) inside the RUN (not inside the existing chicken coop). The smaller chicken coop is kind of a chicken coop/run combo. I wanted the two flocks to live parallel lives without the big chickens pecking the smaller ones and hurting them. They’ve been living that way for a couple months and just in the last couple weeks,I’ve started opening the door of the small/temporary chicken coop to let the “chicks” (which are getting quite big although they aren’t as big as the grown hens yet) mingle with the old ladies. I’ve been surprised at how well it’s gone. The big chickens peck at the smaller ones if they get in the way of a piece of food or scratch that the big ladies want, but other than that, they almost seem bored with the chicks, which is great. My biggest hangup right now is feeding them. My chicks still need grower feed for another 3-4 weeks and I have the treadle type feeders for the established flock. This means the chicks aren’t smart/heavy enough to open the treadle feeders, which is great so they aren’t eating the layer feed, but if I put their chick feed anywhere out in the open, the big chickens go nuts and eat it all (and don’t let the chicks have any of it). Behavior wise, I think I could start mingling the two flocks 24/7 with no problems (I still lock up the chicks in their temporary coop at night and certain times of the day to eat), but I’m not sure what to do about the food? Anyway, sorry for the novel!
We have been dealing with all the same issues and I even got one of my older hens to mother them! It’s so complicated next time I’m just waiting for all the chickens to die and I’ll start with a fresh batch of chicks.
I’m excited for the life changing cookie recipe. Please please post. I just made the cookies and cream cookies and chocolate chip oatmeal ones…both are oh my gracious AMAZING. I love that you provide weight measurements in your recipes; I feel that it makes it more accurate and, even better, less measuring cups to wash 🙂 🙂 :). Thank you so much, Mel! Love this blog!
Thanks, Ella! I promise that recipe will be posted today!
Cookies or pie. Love them both. Saw Jennifer Garner mentioned your recipes in her Instagram. You must be over the moon. Adore both of you women..
I know, I about died!
We always want your recipes!!! We’re hanging in ther for summer. Sometimes better than others
Thanks, Heather!
I have that same dress!!!
Oh, fun!
As long as you PROMISE to post that pie recipe soon – I vote cookies for sure!! Side note: I’ve recently decreed Friday to be Friday-Pie-day in our house until further notice in an effort to perfect my pie-making skills. Your caramel apple pie is sitting in my fridge right now 🙂
Haha, I LOVE that! Every Friday should be pie day. Your family is lucky, lucky!
Hi Mel,
I love your Friday thoughts posts. 🙂 Also random question..I need to get Zac practicing his typing skills, have you found a program you’ve really liked?
I’ve always had a hard time finding a podcast I love and listen to regularly. Until now. I found Family Looking Up. It is relatively new. The gals who host it are hilarious and so real. They have guests and they talk about all sorts of things to do with family and being a mom. I love it.
Thanks for the recommendation!
COOO-KIES!! Yum, yum, yum…
Please post the cookie recipe before 6/26!!! We have a big family gathering and I’d love to try them for that!
I need the cookie recipe now!!
Cookies, pleeeeze!!!!
I cannot wait to see that cookie recipe, Mel! But pie sounds really great also. I love this post of random things–so fun to read. I currently use the Jane Iredale PureLash extender and conditioner before I apply my mascara. I really love the all natural line. It is all fantastic, especially the lip products. But the PureLash is a white product you apply and it makes the mascara even more effective without the brittleness you can get. It’s awesome. I change my mascara around and currently really love the Benefit Roller Lash mascara I buy at Sephora. It has a cool curl brush that really eliminates the need to curl your eyelashes.
Thanks for the lash recommendation, Teresa! Really appreciate it (and the other natural products…I recently changed out most of my other makeup for a natural line and it’s ok, but I’m always looking around for better options).
I don’t know how you do all you do with your little farm and blog and five kids and extra projects! I have five myself and it’s all I can do to keep up with laundry and meals. Please share any time-management tips you have!
yes, julie, I second this request! I would love to hear Mel’s approach to time management for her family/business/household etc., and also to read the comments of her readers 🙂
Hey Julie and Tina! I’m afraid if you saw a peek into my real life, you’d be horrified. You know, messy house, shouting at my kids, all of that. I think sometimes I’m TOO scheduled. Like, I should probably relax. I know getting things done and staying on a schedule are overrated, but I know my mental/emotional health is better (truly) when we follow our schedule. I’ll try to include some details in the next Friday Thoughts – if only to get feedback from others, too! I love learning from all of you so much.
Howdy Mel! Super longtime fan and your recipes make me a rockstar quite often. I also love the practical tips for ingredient adjustments. Your blog is splendid!
I like Mike Rowe’s The Way I Heard It. Great voice, super short and interesting. I don’t remember to listen to my podcasts too often but I’m going to try to get to the ones you suggest. Thanks for your hard work. ❤️
Thank you so much, Molly! And I love Mike Rowe; he’s so entertaining! I’ll definitely look into that podcast!
Cookies!
Yep–I’m also a Voluminous waterproof black mascara lover, forever! (twinners;)) Every now and then I try something new, but always end up coming back to my Voluminous. Sooo…. Thank you so much for sharing about the Paradise addition. So exciting! I can’t wait to try it along with my good ol standby!=) Yay!
Also, the see-through dress looks gorgeous, and the slip looks perfect for it. Kinda pricey for a slip, but then, I haven’t bought a new slip in a very long time, so… maybe inflation?. Glad you found something to work!
Yay for being mascara twinners!
Better then happy for podcasts! You’ll love it soooo much!
Thank you!
Hi Mel!
I made your peanut butter cookies for a friend who said her favorite cookie was peanut butter.
She said “they were out of this world”. The only change I made was replacing half of the peanut butter with crunchy peanut butter and adding 1/2 teaspoon of coconut extract.
Thanks for all of your “tried and true recipes”! I pass on your recipes to friends and family because I know you’ve perfected them!
Liz
That is awesome, Liz! I love the addition of a tiny bit of crunch. I bet they were amazing!
Please post the cookie recipe! I have to make cookies for a Primary Children’s Hospital fundraiser.Thank you.
Today!
Me want cookie! Haha. I’ve made so many of your cookies. I’m kinda obsessed. I think we have all the same food tastes. Period. Every night at dinner my husband says, “What does Mel have you cooking tonight?” My goal has been to make all the recipes listed on your ‘favorites from the past 10 years’ (to start with, haha)
Haha, I love this so much! Thanks, cute girl.
Please post the cookie recipe!!!!
Coming today!
Of course we want the cookie recipe!!
You look so cute in that pic on the swing Mel! Is that the BYU tee you’re wearing? My hubby got one for him and our 14 year old and he thinks it’s “sick”! That dress is darling! I wish I could buy it but I look terrible in white. But I’m totally getting the honey slip, thanks for the suggestio! I’d never heard of them before! You’re the best! Oh and I finally made your Yogurt Lemon Sheet Cake this week, delicious!! My family loved it!
Haha, I laughed out loud because my 14-year old’s favorite adjective is also “sick” at the moment. And yes, it’s the Captain America-ish 4th of July BYU tee. I MIGHT wear it almost every day but that is unconfirmed unless you see me in public. 🙂
I’d love to know what you use to help your kids with typing. I have a kiddo that is old enough to not finger peck the keys but that’s what she does
Hey Janell – we just use the typing.com website. It’s no frills and probably not super exciting but there are some games linked on there they love after they finish their lessons (like nitro type – it’s their fave)
Thanks for the tip on the Honey Slip and I LOVE that beautiful ivory dress! I may have to get one 🙂
I’ve been using Maybelline Volum’ Express The Colossal Washable mascara. I’ve tried all kinds of brands, but this one works well and is inexpensive and it has no parabens.
As a breast cancer survivor who had estrogen-positive receptors, I avoid parabens in all the products I buy. (Parabens can mimic estrogen in our bodies, and I just don’t want to take any chances if I can find stuff I like without them.) It looks like your Lash Paradise has parabens, but the Waterproof one doesn’t, so I may give that one a try!
I love your Friday Thoughts posts, Mel. I don’t usually comment on them, but I love reading them and all the replies from your wonderful blog followers!
I would love if we became dress twinners, Sheree. 🙂 Thanks for the tip on parabens, I need to be better at identifying those in products because I agree, it sounds like it’s best to avoid them. Thank you!
Mel,
I would love a new cookie recipe. I just made the chocolate chip cookie recipe on everyday- reading.com , after seeing your summer reading picks there. Janssen’s recipe was fantastic, just perfect cookies. Have you tried it?
Karen
I think I HAVE tried that recipe, and it is delicious!
How long have you used the lash paradise? I bought a tube. Loved it for about a month and then it got really dry and gross and was almost empty. It was the strangest thing. It was so good for a minute! Now I’ve switched to Boots no 7 and I like it. I use maybelline full and soft as a second coat.
Cookies before pie please.
Oh darn it! That’s a bummer. I’ve been using it for 6-7 months (not the same tube, haha). I put a drop of contact/saline solution in when it starts to dry up and it lasts for a lot longer).
When I read the headline about the best cookies I quickly scrolled to the bottom to find the recipie. Oops, not there. Let me tell you, you are the best and your cookie recipes don’t disappoint. Three weeks ago I made your classic oatmeal with the chocolate chips. I took them to the mission in our town as our church worships with the group every third Sunday. The man who is over it, whom I have never met, called out my name across a big room. He walked over to me to tell me I had made the best cookies! That was so heartwarming to me that he took the time to speak to me about my cookies. I just wanted you to know because it is your awesome recipe. I can’t wait to try the new one. Thanks so much for the great recipes!
That is the best story, Linda! So happy those cookies were a hit!
Yes! Please post the cookie recipe! I have to make cookies for a family reunion next week and I need that recipe!!
Cookies > Pie any day! Please share.
My favorite podcast right now is called LDS Perspecives. It’s interviews with memebers of the Church with an interesting story, profession, or a new perspective on LDS related topics. I know, sounds super churchy but they are seriously so interesting!
My brother just told me about that podcast, Shelley! Thanks for the reminder!
Oh my! I’m a podcast fanatic….not sure hop I can fit another in, but I love Malcom Gladwell. My top: The One You Feed, On Being, Seth Godin’s Akimbo, Gretchen Rubin’s Happier, Freakonomics, Radiolab, TED Radio Hour, 98% Invisible, The Word on Fire Show….more… you have a beautiful family, looks like you all have a lot of fun summer going on! I’m a pie fan, but I can see I’m outnumbered!
So excited about all these recommendations! Thank you!
Mel, we totally NEED this recipe. Not that we cannot survive without it, but life would be so much sweeter if you did :0) NO pressure though.
Haha, posting today. PROMISE!
Love the art of manliness podcast. It’s really really fun.. So many topics and really engaging.
Thanks! Sounds fun!
We want the cookies! Of course! You’re the best!
Yes! Please share the most delicious cookie ever recipe!! We in the throngs of just selling our house, looking for a place to rent, and then buying up in the Boise area! That is how our summer is going! 😉 A new cookie recipe would be awesome!!
Oh yes, you deserve cookies! 🙂
Cookies why is that even a ?
I know, I know. 🙂
I need this recipe!! Looks delicious and I am not sure I can wait much longer.
Cooookiesss! And then pie. Please and thank you.
I’ve been skimming through the comments and couldn’t help but notice you have lots of Loris amongst your fans. Smart people those Loris.
Hahaha.
Please send my way.
We recently discovered Malcolm Gladwell’s Revisionist History podcast too! Totally amazing. We love it!!
Isn’t it? I listen to every episode the minute it comes out.
Cookies!!! My son leaves to go back to college soon and I need to show him as much Mom love as I can.
I will take the pie recipe when your ready. Baking pies scares me, but I’m always willing to practice. I always like to try them once or twice before Thanksgiving. FYI- the crumb apple pie recipe you shared last Thanksgiving has become a regularly requested treat! Thanks!!
Thanks, Jackie! The pie I’m posting has a graham crust and it’s super easy. But I’ll post those cookies today!
Cookies! Always cookies!
And, thank you for all the other tips!
Oh dear – your teasing is not nice!! 🙂 Yes! Yes! Please bring this cookies recipe to us BEFORE the pie recipe! Thank you so much for all your posts!
Hi Mel! Thanks for your Friday thoughts! I bought the L’Oreal Voluminous Lash Paradise mascara too but haven’t tried it yet (need to use up what I currently have), so I’m glad to hear how much you like it! I may have to break it out sooner! Also, thanks for the info on the Honey Slip. I had never heard of that. I looked it up and looks like a great option, so I may have to try it.
I’d be happy to see either the pie or cookie recipe but I’m more likely to make cookies than pie. Thanks!
Thanks, Kristine!
Pie or cookies? Both as fast as you can post them! Have a great weekend Mel!
Cookie recipe Please?!?
My niece currently makes the best cookies in the family. I would love to try the cookie recipe to see what she thinks! Be sure to have a big announcement when you post. (drum roll please)
The cookie link!!! I need these in my life! Where is ittttttt? 🙂
Cookies please! Also, I’m not a big podcast listener but I do enjoy “How I Built This” which highlights how different businesses were started. Pretty interesting stuff!
Life-changing cookies?!?!?! No pressure, but . . . yes, Yes, YES!
NOOOOOOOOO, I was hoping the cookie recipe would be on here!!! I need some life changing cookies in my life asap!!!!! Please share!!!
Coming today!!
I’m assuming these cookies make some killer cookie dough, in which case I need it now! It’s too hot to turn on the oven anyway, right?!?
Oh my gosh, yes, the dough is crazy good. I mean, not that I know firsthand or anything.
Hi Mel, I love cookies and pie! And I’m not too worried how quick or the order they come. I know how much work it takes. Thanks so much for all your posts. Loved your recommendations. The two podcasts I listen to regularly and love are Better than Happy by Jodi Moore and The Life Coach School podcast by Brooke Castillo. They are both great podcasts about learning how to manage your thoughts to accomplish great things in the world. Have a great weekend!
You are so sweet, Heather. Thanks for being patient regardless of which recipe is posted. Thanks for the podcast recommendations!
PLEASE – new cookie recipe
COOKIES
I am so excited for your cookie recipe! I seriously can’t wait to try it!
I am a huge fan of L’Oreal voluminous mascara and will be scoping out L’Oreal voluminous lash paradise the next time I am at the store. Thanks for the great tip!
YES I want the cookie recipe! I have a slight obsession with trying new cookie recipes
My death wish is to die with cookies, fantastic cookies in my hand and a Dr. Pepper inn the other!
Hahaha. Love this.
I want the cookie recipe pretty please ♀️♥️Ashley Udall
Would love to have this cookie recipe! My grandchildren expect me to have homemade cookies every time they visit(which is very often). I, too, use Loreal mascara and love it!!
What a fun grandma! I’ll post it today!
COOKIES! COOKIES! COOKIES!
Life-changing cookie recipe needs to come sooner rather than later!!!! I loved the life coach school podcast on organization – but that’s an area in which I am always looking for solutions and inspiration – I pretty much suck at it!
Great post. Thank you for the tips! I like listening to the Optimal Health Daily Podcast. They’re short, so I usually listen to one week at a time. Those cookies look amazing, so a post with that recipe gets my vote!
I’ve read all of Malcolm Gladwell’s books. I’ve never been a big audiobook or podcast listener but I’m going to give this a try. Thanks!
What are you doing for National Ice Cream day this Sunday July 15????
I need to look into his books! And I was a slacker for national ice cream day, sadly.
Want the cookies!
Cookies for the win! Every time. And I think your pitch for Malcolm Gladwell’s podcast has me sold. I am going to check it out.
Hope you love it, Anne!
Me want cookies! Pie shmie.
🙂
love to have a go to cookie recipe!
cookies, cookies, always cookies is my vote!
Thanks for the tip on the slip! My favorite podcasts right now are Happier with Gretchen Rubin and 3in30 Takesways for Moms. I’m going to check out your recommendation!
So many of you love Gretchen Rubin. I need to get on board!
Cookies!!!! Always cookies!!!!
I’d love to have & try your “best cookie” recipe!!
Can’t wait to try them! Thanks!!
Robyn Martin
robynm57@hotmail.com
Dying to get my hands on this recipe!! These cookies look soooo yummy!
I would love to hear which one of your cookies would be the best to make ahead form into a small cookie and freeze for baking later. There is only two of us and we love Just a few flash baked cookies at a time. By the way, just today I was wondering where you had been…missed you.
That’s a great question, Lynn! Honestly, any of the classic drop cookies work great like that! The one I’m posting later today would be great frozen and baked later.
I’m excited to try the honey slip! I really needed something like that. I’m also excited to try the pie AND the cookies so post in whatever order you’d like! Thanks for all the tips. My kids are similar ages to yours and your chore charts etc have been really helpful for us
Thanks, Amanda!
Cookie recipe first please! My hubby has been begging me to make him a sweet for the lake.
so bad!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! looks delicious. I always go for cheap on mascara but i think I’m going to go for one of these. Thanks for the rec
We’re soul sisters, amen ti all of the above. I too recently found Lash Paradise and I bought it with the Primer combo. Boom, actual lashes on this very average lash girl as well!
Also, i’ll be needing a BYU flag. Ordering online is fantastic!
Love love love all you do Mel. I may not comment on everything all the time but I make so many of your recipes my friends and family don’t even ask for the recipe, they just say… “now what is the name of this Mel recipe??”
Thanks, Mickie!!
Thanks for the mascara tip! I was hating mine just this morning. Those cookies look amazing and I will probably make them as soon as you post the recipe! Thanks for your great ideas and best recipes ever! You are a rockstar at our house!
Thanks, Becky!
As if I didn’t already love you enough, this post has just made me love you even more.
I, too, am a Voluminous lover and am so excited that my fave food blogger is equally as obsessed! Loreal should seriously pay me commission for how often I recommend it to my friends. It is the absolute BEST and I will never, ever stray. My mom, who started the Voluminous obsession, tried the Lash Paradise and loved it. I tried it and liked it, but thought it was dry. I will definitely have to try the combo now!
Honey slips = amazing.
I got so excited about those cookies and then depressed when I realized there was actually no recipe. No hard feelings though. 😉 I would LOVE to see this life-changing cookie recipe! Thank you so much for sharing your amazing talents with all of us mediocre folk!
I hope our love for the same mascara made up for the fact that I didn’t have the recipe for those cookies up on Friday. I promise it’s coming soon! 🙂
How can it be any better than your “My Favorite Cookie ” recipe? I’ve made this one so many times I’ve almost gotten it memorized. (and I haven’t had it all that long) But this one also would me amazing as my husband loves chocolate chip cookies of any kind.
Thanks for giving us such wonderful recipes that become part of our family favorites!!!
Linda in Phoenix
It’s a lot different…but SO delicious! 🙂
We’re going to a BQ tomorrow and would LOVE to take your new cookies,! PRETTY PLEASE….post your new recipe today!
I really really want life changing cookies
Post the cookie recipe!!!
Please!! You must post the recipe for these cookies.. A must! 🙂
I want to make those cookies ASAP! They look delicious. Question about the slip: does it breathe? My problem with slips is that they’re kind of sweaty in the summer, which defeats the whole purpose of wearing a nice, cool dress…
As for podcasts, I’ve been meaning to listen to Jen Hatmaker’s (because her writing is hilarious) but I haven’t gotten around to it yet.
Hmmm, that’s a good question, I’ve only worn it twice and it was just to church so I wasn’t outside dealing with the heat. I’m guessing it’s not super breathable…but it is pretty lightweight and comfortable. I wonder if their customer service would have a better answer? Sorry!
I’m up for a new recipe for life changing cookies! 🙂
Current favorite podcast is The Lazy Genius. I love all of her practical tips…now if I could just implement them
Just a thought- post the cookie recipe today then you can stick with your originally planned recipe for Monday. Ummm just a thought.
Haha, I wish! I don’t have time today, but I promise it’s coming Monday!
We NEED thcookies! Give us ALL of the cookies!!! YUMMY
You can’t leave us hanging with a life changing cookie recipe!!! Cookies make the world go round!
Yes!
Monday, I promise!
I really need your cookie recipe…like really need it. Is that too dramatic? I just finished a no-sugar week and need a pick me up! Haha!
haha, yes, these would totally be the perfect ending to a no-sugar week. 🙂
For mascara- I loveeeeeee Benefit’s Rollerlash! Love. And I even have weird eyelash issues. I love the tubes brand new and I even love it as it dries out. I love it all the time. Ulta offers it 1/2 off twice a year so I stock up!
For podcasts-anything Enneagram, but mainly Typology with Ian Crohn. Can’t stop won’t stop. Also Jen Hatmaker’s For the Love!
For summer thoughts-I’m 8 months pregnant in the Oklahoma 100+ degree heat and I hate everything. Send prayers, good vibes/cool down ideas, and maybe more ice cream. I’ll always take Jeni’s.
For recipes, yes to both? Because, again, 8 months pregnant. 🙂
Thanks for the mascara tip, Kayla! And the podcasts! And oh my, you can do this summer + pregnancy thing! Hang in there!
We definitely need the best cookie recipe of your life! Your recipes are always the best! We had Bean Curry with Naan bread last night. My teenage boys know to go to your blog for recipes! Love it!
Thanks, Jenni!
Mmmmmm Cookies!
So, about the mascara . . . I’ve always avoided waterproof, much to difficult to remove. What do you use to take it off? maybe I’ll try it.
I use the makeup wipes – I prefer the Neutrogena ones but right now I’m using the Kirkland brand (Costco)
Nothing like a serious hot flash in the middle of summer to make any mascara just slide down your face. Voila! No remover needed!
Try baby oil on a cotton ball! Works like a charm for every waterproof mascara I’ve thrown at it! Cheap, gentle on your eyes, and really works! Wipe it clean afterwards with a wet cloth or a dry tissue.
I’m a Mary Kay girl so no selling plug, but their makeup remover is bomb. Even gets those temp tattoos off the kids and old glue from bandages, etc.
Cookie recipe, please! I’ve lost my touch with my own!
Waiting for the cookie recipes!!!
Please send me your fantastic cookie recipe!
I really want that cookie recipe!
I want that cookie recipe ASAP!
Hello – yes – did you hear me yet? I NEED the cookie recipe…..and I love your site! 🙂
Haha, Monday!
Bring on the cookies!!!! And the pie!!!
I also love Lash Paradise. I love trying different mascaras and this is one of my faves. The only one I probably liked as much was Lancome Hypnose Drama, but I bought that with a gift card and probably wouldn’t spend real money on it given its much higher price. I now saw Lash Paradise in a three-pack at Costco…cheaper and convenient….WIN WIN!!
Happy Weekend!!
Thanks for the recommendations! And yay for Costco!
I’m loving the podcast: “a Bit a Whit” right now.
Thanks!
I’m ALWAYS up for a new cookie recipe. And congratulations on the Jennifer Garner shout out – so cool, and totally deserved! My favorite podcast is Stuff You Should Know, but I just baaaarely got into podcasts, so I’m excited to read all the recommendations in the comments! Oh, and I’m also a dedicated L’oreal mascara fan – it’s so good!
Haha, I know, I kind of fell over when my sis-in-law texted me this morning and told me about that Jennifer Garner post.
I find this site to be excellent in its transparency about privacy, advertising, and affiliate links. To me Mel is awesomely honest and responsive to her readers. I love the food posts, but also love the family snapshots, friday thoughts, gift guides, and other thoughtful, useful, and heartfelt content Mel creates. Unlike other sites, I never feel duped into reading an ad masquerading as content. Thank you, Mel!
The information about privacy policies is easy to find and read: click on the About link at the top of the site, then scroll to the Contact section where Mel provides a link to her policies. Or copy and paste:
https://www.melskitchencafe.com/privacy-policy/
I love Friday Thoughts! Mascara is a hot topic for me. I’m blessed with super long eyelashes but, oddly enough, that makes it hard to find mascara that works well because it’s made for short lashes! Haha. I have tried a ton, and the current favorite is Tarte’s Tarteist “lash paint”. It’s amazing. Pricey, but Ulta often has sales and it’s worth it.
Podcasts are tough– I horde lists of ones to listen to but I hardly ever make it work in my schedule. I need to start doing it during my workout, that is a good call. I love This American Life, More Perfect, and Amicus. I’m a lawyer and the legal themes are my jam.
Btw, my parents gifted me two King Arthur Flour cookbooks, the baking companion and the cookie companion, and they are sooooo great. I wonder if you have those?
Thanks for all the recommendations, Megan!! And yes, I have both of those KAF books. They are really good, although the cookie companion has several typos (I think they have a list on their website of corrections)
I think I need any recipe you say is the best!! And cookies are my favorite treat so yes please pretty please share!!
Monday!
COOKIES over pie any day!
It’s already been mentioned but I have to say I think everyone should listen to BETTER THAN HAPPY by Jody Moore. It’s life changing to simply change your thoughts!
Adding that to my to-listen list!
Cookie recipe for sure!! Love hearing your thoughts ….
Pie Schmie – we want cookies!!!!
Cookie recipe please!!!
We have girl’s camp coming, I want it BAD!
Cookie recipe please!!!
And my favorite podcasts are ‘How I Built This’ by Guy Raz (also fascinating stories) and ‘The Big Boo Cast’ with Sophie Hudson and Melanie Shankle (makes me laugh out loud every single time!!!).
I’ve been searching for a mascara I love, so I’ll be trying yours and any other suggestions! Haven’t found my hearts desire yet.
Thanks for the recommendations, Joni!
I’m much more loyal to my eye makeup remover (the ever-popular Almay) than I am to my mascara. I’m curious about which remover you use since you mentioned your mascara is always water-proof. Re summer schedules: you also mentioned a while back that your older kids are slowly transitioning to full-time summer jobs. What are your plans for family vacations once that happens? We had a difficult time when our oldest made summer commitments to his employers leaving us unable to plan a week away with him during the summer. (We live by the lake and mountains so don’t feel too sorry for us!!)
I used to use Almay! And then I discovered makeup wipes and I’ve been converted. I use the Kirkland brand (Costco) but I like the Neutrogena ones slightly better. As for the family vacations…that’s a great question! I honestly don’t know. I think I’ve filed that away in the cross that bridge when we come to it department. Right now the kids have been doing their own mini entrepreneur-type businesses, but if/when they start working for an employer, we’ll definitely need to think about that!
Will look into those makeup wipes….thanks! Somehow we’ve still managed family vacations even with work, college, etc.!:)
Just had to reply about the eye makeup remover. I used to use Almay as well until I read about an even better, and inexpensive trick: baby oil. Just dab the baby oil on a cotton ball and gently rub over your eye. Takes off every waterproof mascara out there, which sometimes my Almay didn’t. After doing that, I wet a soft terry cloth (like the makeup eraser, meant for face washing) and wipe off my foundation and then wipe my eyes clean of any baby oil residue. Simplest, least expensive nightly routine I’ve ever had and my skin has been better than ever! 🙂
Thanks for the tip Jana!
Cookie recipe please! I’ll take a good cookie recipe any day over a pie recipe.
I thought this blog was about food. Why are you sneaking mascara ads in on us? I hesitate now to post this because you need my name and email. Do you share that info, too?
I find this site to be excellent in its transparency about privacy, advertising, and affiliate links. To me Mel is awesomely honest and responsive to her readers. I love the food posts, but also love the family snapshots, friday thoughts, gift guides, and other thoughtful, useful, and heartfelt content Mel creates. Unlike other sites, I never feel duped into reading an ad masquerading as content. Thank you, Mel!
The information about privacy policies is easy to find and read: click on the About link at the top of the site, then scroll to the Contact section where Mel provides a link to her policies. Or copy and paste:
https://www.melskitchencafe.com/privacy-policy/
Thank you, Tina. 🙂
Hey Laurel, I only included a link in the post for the mascara I love, but if you are seeing mascara ads, it is probably related to internet “cookies” that use information related to websites you’ve looked at online. Many websites store these types of cookies (you can read more about it in my privacy policy: https://www.melskitchencafe.com/privacy-policy/) but I assure you I’m not sharing any of your information with 3rd parties. I promise to always be forthcoming about the products I share (whether they are affiliate links or not) and give appropriate and sometimes in-your-face disclaimers so my readers know what I’m all about. Sorry if you felt frustration over this!
Laurel Gaskill, If you are referring to seeing actual mascara ads (vs referring to Mel’s section as being an ad), then your browser has picked up that you clicked through and/or looked/shopped online for mascara. Maybe by accident, but that is how all browser ads work. For example, I have a puppy and consequently have purchased many puppy items lately so I see a LOT of ads for puppy products and companies that sell puppy products.
One way to clear ads, particularly if you looked at something you’d rather not see ads for … for example, after buying a bra online I got all kinds of bra ads and I really did not want to see bras all over my pages… anyway, clearing your browser cache will reset ads that result from your history. If you don’t know how to do that search on “clear browser cache for” adding on whichever browser you use.
*** and what Tina said 🙂
COOKIES!!COOKIES!!COOKIES!!!
Very very badly!! And the sooner the better!!
I love everything about this post! Invisibilia is a favorite podcast of mine- also nutrition redefined is a new one I just started listening to!
Cookies please!! My family loves every recipe I make of yours, I’m sure this will not disappoint!
Oh yes, both of those are great!
Um, I want the cookie recipe very badly. Like yesterday. 🙂
Haha. Monday, friend, Monday!
Cookie recipe pleeeeeeeease…. sorry to whine, but I just can’t have enough cookie recipes in my life. Nuff said. ❤️
🙂
Cookie recipe stat!!! I’m guessing it’s a life changer so we need is ASAP! Thanks for all your great recipes and wonderful content in general.
I hope I haven’t oversold it! That’s the worst. I promise its amazing, though.
Can’t wait for the new cookie recipe! Any podcasts your boys like? And what program do you use to increase typing speed for the kids?!? Thanks!
We’ve just been using typing.com and nitro type (they love that one). My younger boys love story pirates and wow in the world podcasts. I haven’t found any yet to really grab my older boys attention.
My daughter, who is 11, really loved the podcast series “ The unexplainable disappearance of Mars Patel”.;she and her friend were riveted by the story!
Hi Mel ~ I have been looking to find the podcasts that you had recommended a while back. When I click on the link it just sends me to sign up for your newsletter. I am signed up and went back through your news letter and I cant find them. Do you mind relisting them!? Thank you!!!
I think I recommended these:
Freakonomics Radio
Wow in the World (kids)
Circle Round (kids)
Women with Fire
Extraordinary Moms
My favorite mascara is this! It’s amazing!
https://www.walmart.com/ip/L-Oreal-Paris-Double-Extend-Beauty-Tubes-Lengthening-Mascara/11965341?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=0&wl13=2554&adid=22222222228009537789&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=m&wl3=53411625872&wl4=pla-111811494512&wl5=9030164&wl6=&wl7=&wl8=&wl9=pla&wl10=8175035&wl11=local&wl12=11965341&wl13=2554&veh=sem
And what color honey slip did you get?
Thanks for the link! I bought the nude color.
Favorite podcasts night now: Happier by Gretchen Rubin and Liz Craft. Gretchen is a brilliant writer and thinker. I love the friendly and truly helpful banter between these two sisters!
Other favorite: Better than Happy with Jody Moore. Wow—talk about insightful. I loved reading Malcolm Gladwells books. Thanks for the recommendation on his podcast!
LDS General Conference, and BYU Speeches also get added to my listening rotation.
Final thought, I used to listen to my podcasts through the Podcast app on my iPhone. I hated how last year’s update has made it difficult to queue playlists. I’m trying out the Overcast app right now. I like how I can create playlists— but the verdict is still out on functionality.. Does anyone else have a favorite app for podcasts?
I don’t have an iPhone, so not sure if it’s available. But my favorite podcast app is Pocketcasts. It just works. I can queue manually, or have it set to auto download and queue. I can change the behavior of each podcast individually. So, some never delete, some, like the news, always delete, and some in between.
Thanks, Courtney for the recommendation. I am going to give it a try!
That’s a great question, Melanie. I just use the Podcast built-in app on the iPhone but I agree it’s not great. Thanks for the other recommendations!
I want his recipe sooooo badly! Please send me it today! I am in Kentucky with me sister and she wants me to make it for her before she leaves today!
Thanks
Man, everyone is going to hate me! It’ll be posted Monday!
I really really really want an amazing new cookie recipe. I love pie. I love pie a lot. But it’s just a little less flexible than cookies. Even with the crazy heat, I would be willing to turn on my oven for a really good cookie recipe this weekend 🙂
Coming Monday!
Wait what!?!? Dont do this to us! Me. Need. Now.
🙂
Post both the recipes!! On a Monday we need two recipes!! 🙂
Then I think I need more than 24 hours in a day! Haha. 🙂 I promise to get them posted ASAP
Oh and my favorite podcast is The Happy Hour with Jamie Ivey, and That Sounds Fun by Annie F Downs. Thanks!!!
Thank you!
I would love the cookie recipe AND the pie recipe next week if you an swing it because who doesn’t love cookies and pie??
Maybe it will be an all-sweets week here on MKC! Haha.
Cookies, cookies, cookies!! Please oh please!! At my house we live for your cookie recipes!!
I promise Monday!
Loved this post. Thanks for the mascara tips. I’ve never tried either of those, and now I’m curious. I love waterproof, but haven’t used it for a few years now, sometimes it can be a bugger to get off. What do you use? I’m not sure that a vote between cookies and pie is really a fair competition. Cookies are just such a “need you everyday” kind of thing. Like… today! They would be a great way to spend Friday the 13th. 🙂 Thanks for your thoughts and time. Such cute pictures of you and the kiddos!
Thanks, Bekah! I use the Kirkland brand (Costco) makeup wipes and that brand of waterproof mascara comes off really well!
Hi Mel ~ Happy Friday! Sounds like summer is going along nicely for you and your family.
I would LOVE the cookie recipe. They sure look yummy 🙂
Monday, Monday!
Cookies please!!!
May I first say how much I admire women who dress up and wear a slip. I can’t remember the last time I gave a slip a thought. I am a podcast lover for sure. Some of my favorites are The Ultimate Heath Podcast, Awesome Edtiquette, Oprah’s Super Soul and The Doctor’s Farmacy with Mark Hyman M.D. Thanks for all the new podcast recommendations. I highly recommend making the giant chocolate chip cookie recipe. The recipe is easy, quick and my family loved it.
Thanks for the podcast recommendations, Lynn!
Give me those cookies!!!!!
Please post the cookie recipe sooner than later! I love all of the cookies I have made from your site but love trying new recipes too.
Monday!
Post the cookie recipe! Please!!! Cookies = Bliss. Dramatic much? 😉
Podcasts: Our Fake History ; The Women With Fire (found it because of you. Love it!)
Thanks for the Mascara tips!
Not dramatic at all! 🙂
Yes to the cookies!!!! Cookies are life!
You can’t do that to me! Post “life-changing cookies” AND a pic with no recipe and expect me to go about my day as usual?!? Come on! That’s just diabolical.
I know. I’m sorry! Monday!
I’m afraid I’m going to need this cookie recipe. My mouth is watering! Oh and I’ve never heard of Honey Slips, but it looks like the down east full body slip I just ordered that changed my life! Cover everything, light weight, no extra camisole, yes please! Also, I enacted your summer chore schedule after years of trying to find a solution for summer and it’s been ! So thank you, thank you for making this so easy this summer. Everyone who comes to my house and sees it taped on the wall ( we’re high tech cool over here) wants to know all about it and I send them to your blog. Bless Up Woman! Thanks for the mascara tip! Uber excited about a drug store find!
Love all the recommendations! Two of my favorite podcasts are The Life Coach School and Better Than Happy. Can’t wait to listen to Revisionist History.
Thanks! Lots of people recommended those after my newsletter about podcasts went out a while ago.
Hi Mel,
I use and love L’Oreal’s Double Extend Beauty Tube mascara! It washes off clean (comes off in little tubes with water). No smearing… ever. Can’t wait for your new favorite cookie recipe! If you could share today- I promise I’ll be making them this afternoon for our weekend trip to my parents. Otherwise, I’m making our all time favorite Mel cookie-Chewy Choc. Chip Oatmeal Coconut (CCCOC) and then making the new ones on Monday of course! (Win-Win!)
Thanks for the mascara rec! I won’t be able to share the cookie recipe today (sorry!) but I promise it’ll be up Monday
YES to the cookie recipe- stat!
Monday!
I love revisionist history! And I am old enough to remember the old McDonald fries and I miss them. My husband also listened to the podcast and he makes the fries in the family. So I set out to find beef tallow and I did find some through a local rancher. And it was totally worth it! The house now smells like a really good pot roast instead of a greasy fast food place. And the fries are really good.
That’s amazing! I was so fascinated by that episode!
Cookies pleeeeease!
To heck with pie, I want the cookies!!
Just waiting for the recipe!!!
Monday!
WANT the cookie recipe!! Need to try something different and amazing! Been in a cookie slump.
Cookie slump will be fixed Monday!
My current favorite mascara is L’Oréal Telescopic. It lengthens my stubby lashes and has great staying power. I don’t use waterproof mascara because I find it hard to remove, even with the correct eye makeup remover. Still, I feel compelled to try your combo. 🙂
Pie is delicious, no question, but life-changing cookies are a no-brainer!
Have a beautiful summer + kids + farm day!
Great recommendation, Gail! Thanks!
Oh! The cookies recipe would be great timing as I am having our family’s friend visiting from England over for dinner this Monday night along with 12 other family members.
I’m competing with those lovely biscuits over the pond…your cookies look fantastic! USA represent!
🙂
You are terrible! I was so excited for the cookie recipe and to make it today to have again tomorrow for my daughter’s Cookie Monster party and then there was no recipe!
Can you just publish it today as a Freaky Friday bonus?!?!?
Thanks for the podcast rec! Can’t wait. I love the simple show, purpose show, and happier. My kids and I also love Stories Podcast and it keeps us entertained on road trips. Thanks for your thoughts!
I know! People are getting kind of intense! Guess I learned my lesson about not giving any hints about recipes. I really was curious about cookie vs pie, but now I know! 🙂 I won’t have time to post it today but it’ll go up Monday!
We always need cookies and pie. So you better just post both. Pronto.
My thoughts— well, I have a 3mo old as well as a 3yr, 5, yr and 7 (almost 8) yr old. So most of my thoughts stem around “how soon can I take a nap”, “how many chores will get done before my three-nager gets all sassy and belligerent….?” And “I think I need cookies for breakfast.”
I actually mopped the floor yesterday. When I bragged to my husband about it, I quickly followed it with “such a waste of time!”
Floor mopping has got to be the most instant-gratification chores, as well as the most quickly pointless chores. Between the 3 kids, the dog, and our unfinished back yard it gets dirty in a moments notice. And I must mention how much I hate doing the chore. Alas. It must be done.
There’s my random thoughts for the day.
Now… off to make coconut steel cut oats in the IP and those cherry pie bars that have been taunting me all week!
❤️ From Oregon!
Love the random thought, Katrina! And I am SO with you on floor mopping being so validating…and so pointless! Hang in there. 🙂
Mel!! Can we have the cookies then the pie….like the day after? ;0)
Haha, maybe!
I just bought a slip like that but from Seagull book on there SweetSalt clothing line for $24.99. Love it! I wear Younique’s Moodstruck Epic Mascara and love it. I need to look at your chore post again. I feel like my children struggle with getting it down every day. Always up for a new cookie recipe and all the other recipes you post.
Thanks for the recommendations!
My favorite mascara is called Better Than Sex. I used to wear glasses and had to stop using this mascara because my lashes touched my lenses. But now my eyes are fixed and I can’t wait to go back to this brand.
And yes please, post the cookie recipe asap! My kids will be in town this weekend and I would love to make them some and not have to mail them!
That’s awesome!
Cookies! Please!!!
Monday!
All of that……and then a recipe tease
I think that I need this miracle cookie recipe. Right now. Like, so i can make them for the weekend right now. Thanks! I adore your site!
I won’t get them posted that soon (heading out for a super fast road trip to my cousin’s wedding this weekend), but I promise, Monday the recipe will be yours!
Cookies! Please
Please, oh please send your cookie recipe! It is Friday the 13th after all and mysteriously wonderful things can happen on this day…like making life changing cookies and eating them!! 🙂
Yes, that would be the BEST thing to happen on this crazy day! It’ll be Monday, promise!
Better than the almond joy? Do tell.
I know. I hate to oversell things, but honestly, I can only think of these cookies lately.
Post the cookie recipe please!! 🙂
Monday!
Always cookies!!!
Monday, Monday!
Cookies! Cookies! (Pie too, but cookies always first!!) and thanks for the tips on mascara and podcasts..need to look into the honey slip!!
Monday!
Tease! Of course we want the cookie recipe. ASAP please.
Haha, I’m gathering that!
I want it so bad (the cookie recipe, that is), that I am shaking, sweating profusely, and won’t be able to function as a human being unless you post it.
there… if you needed encouragement… 😉
Hahahahaha
Cookies before pie ALWAYS! And I to love my honey slips! And you!
Yay for another honey slip recommendation!
I recently started listening to Revisionist History and am really enjoying it as well. My neice recommended it, so luckily I have a built-in conversation partner. I also really like the “Pop Culture Happy Hour” podcost — movie, TV and other reviews and discussions from primarily NPR culture critics + guests. I like the discussions both about what’s good/worth watching, but also the broader dicussions about genres, tropes, culture, race, etc. Thanks, Mel!
Thanks for the recommendation, Susan! Is that the one with Knox and Jamie?
Don’t give yourself more work this weekend! Just post the pie recipe and we’ll get the cookies eventually. In this day and age of instant gratification, having to wait for something is good!
This is sweet! Much as I want the cookie gratification, I am willing to wait 😉
Brianna – you are so sweet! Thanks for that comment. I probably shouldn’t have asked that question in the first place. 🙂 I’ll end up posting both recipes…and I won’t be able to work on anything this weekend as I’m heading to Utah super fast for my cousin’s wedding, but something delicious will go up Monday!
My favorite mascara is by LimeLife – it’s their perfect mascara and it’s amazing. My lashes look darker, longer, fuller when I use it and what I love is that it lasts all day long!
Definitely would love to see that cookie recipe before Monday! 😉
Thanks for the recommendation!! Probably won’t get that cookie recipe posted before Monday (heading on a super fast trip to Utah for my cousins’ wedding) but I promise asap!
Another vote for the cookie recipe. I mean, you know us, how could you even ASK???!!? Haha.
Haha, that’s what I’m gathering from all these comments. Kind of like: tell me how you really feel!! Haha.
Your giant chocolate chip cookie cake was life changing for us. I’ve probably made it 25 times in the last couple months… so I’m sitting on the edge of my seat waiting for this new cookie recipe! Loved this post btw 🙂
Serious? That’s undying love right there! I’ll get that cookie recipe posted asap! I’m feeling bad for my little pie. It’s SO delicious, too!
My latest mascara obsession…Lemongrass Spa! I’m pretty demanding with mascara. I like a more natural product, it has to agree with my sensitive eyes, and I need waterproof/resistant. So far, this one is getting my vote. Oh, and I vote for cookies!
Yay for a great mascara recommendation!
I came down with a cold about a week ago and it wasn’t too bad except that it killed my appetite and energy level! Now that I’m feeling better I’m craving cookies! After reading this I’m craving them more! I vote cookies before pie!
Glad you are on the up and up, Paula!
Cookie recipe. Always.
Will do! Monday!
I started using Babe Lash serum back in February. It’s not break the budget expensive and it really works! It took a full 12 weeks before I saw results but my lashes are definitely longer, which I’m just really loving since I’ve always had sad little lashes.
However, I also have super sensitive eyes and have noticed that I can only use it a couple times a week or i start to develop stys on my lash line. I’ve always been prone to them. But it’s fine if I don’t use it everyday!
That’s awesome! I found out the hard way with several lash serums I tried that they don’t play nicely with my hard contacts (think: gummy, foggy contacts all the time). Such a bummer!
I haven’t seen which ones you recommended in your newsletter, but I love Revisionist History as well. Another favorite is How I Built This with Guy Raz. He interviews different entrepreneurs who have created successful companies. I find it fascinating. Recently, I started Cut the Fat Podcast and have loved learning more in depth about healthy eating and exercise. A great one to listen to with kids is Wow in the World.
Yes, How I Built This is great (some episodes better than others, which is true for all podcasts). Thanks for the recommendations!
So, which color of slip did you go with? I almost feel like I need one in all 3 colors, but I’m leaning towards nude.
Yep, I got the one in nude.
Cookie recipe please! Be careful introducing new chickens to older chickens. If you put them together too soon you’ll have a pecking situation. As for podcasts, I listen to This American Life, Ted Talks Heakth, Sword and Scale, Something You Should Know, The Vanished, Serial, and several others. Enjoy the rest of summer! It’s going fast. Teresa
Cookies coming Monday! We’ve been able to gradually introduce the chicks and it’s going great, thankfully!
Good tip on Malcolm Gladwell’s podcast — I loved the Tipping Point, but didn’t think about checking him out in podcast form. And good mascara layering tip — I have lashes that I would call “short scrub brushes” so I need all the help I can get, lol.
Haha, I think my lashes and your lashes must be friends. 🙂
I want both recipes!!!! We made your oatmeal chocolate chip cookies last week. They were so delicious!
I made these and they did not set up correct but will try again
I’ll post both, promise!
Definitely looking into that slip! Thank you!
If ‘s fun reading about your farm. Our farm is a little different; we have 416 blueberry plants-it all goes to our kid’s college/mission fund. It is keeping us super busy right now. Not to mention the chickens, two Fair pigs (I joke my husband didn’t think a baby in April would keep us busy enough this summer), 10+bee hives, a large garden (grateful for a husband who keeps that up and going as I tend to have more of a black than green thumb), some raspberries and blackberries, and some fruit trees. But, I am so grateful for our little farm and the skills it teaches our children. The Lord is definitely good to us and mindful of us (each of us).
Now cookies or pie? Definitely cookies!
I love hearing about how others live the property life! I love all the blueberry plants (that’s SO many!). I would love to have pigs but right now we just have our 24 chickens and 4 cows. Plus the beehives and garden (both cultivated and the raspberries and fruit trees). I can’t believe you manage all of that and a newborn!
Cookies before pie. DON’T YOU DARE HOLD BACK ON US! 🙂
I’m getting the message! 🙂 Cookie recipe coming Monday!
Cookies before pie! We NEED life changing cookies!
Haha, ok! Monday!