No-Bake Berry Tarts | Paleo, Vegan

Summer time is finally rolling around, even though we've still had lots of spring showers here in the Bay Area!  We've had some chilly days, but each time the summer sun decides to shine, I find all the inspiration I need to get my BBQ/grillin' hat on.  Because who doesn't love a paper plate of perfectly grilled meat with some cool, refreshing sides?  And once you've got your ultimate summer plate stacked up just right, there has to be a sweet treat to finish it off - am I right?

My mission was to come up with a cool, creamy treat - perfect for topping off those summer nights - that doesn't require heating up any household appliances.  Because you know that heating up an oven is not always the most welcome idea when the house is already warm!

Whole30 Breakfast Bowls with Spicy Cream Sauce

I think most of us have realized by now, that meal prepping is "a thing" - and everyone & their mom seems to be doing it!  What I don't think all realize, though, is that it doesn't have to be an all-day Sunday event that involves mountains of plastic containers that barely fit in the fridge, with the same-ol' boring foods packed in.

Preparing your meals ahead of time can be done any day throughout the week, and it doesn't have to be every single meal for the day - so don't be overwhelmed!  Start small with the meal that's most difficult for you to make in the moment, due to time constraints, schedule, or any other variable.  For us, that's breakfast.  

Because when you wake up in a rush to get out the door and start your day, it can be tough to fit in time to cook.  So rather than grabbing a bar, heading for the nearest Starbucks (although I do love it...), or skipping breakfast altogether:  prep this tricky meal ahead of time!  Even if it's just for a few days out, you will absolutely thank yourself later.

Cookie Dough Fudge Bars | Paleo

"School's out for the summer...."  "School's out...."  okay, that's all I know from that song.  But it's fitting, and ringing through my mind, because guess what?  School is out.  You guessed it - for the summer!

I just finished my first school year with a new district (I'm a speech therapist by day) and am so excited!  The year was filled with challenges and so much learning as I went, but it was a really good year.  I am so thankful for a great job working with kids that make me laugh every day.  And another big take away?  High schoolers aren't as scary as they look or seem.  They're actually so fun to work with, and I can't wait to jump back in for round 2 in August!

Asian Lettuce Wrap Filling | Paleo, Whole30

I may be alone in this, but... eating things with my hands (unless those things are fries) seriously stresses me out.  I'm talking sandwiches, tacos, wraps, etc.  Anyone else?

Fillings dripping out, taking a bite & watching stuff fall out the other end (not to mention just having to put my hands all over my food)?  No.  Way too many variables when all I want is to chow down on some delicious eats when I'm hungry and just want to get the food in my belly.

Everything Aioli | Paleo, Whole30

The secret to avoiding food boredom when eating paleo or on a Whole30?  Hands down:  sauces, dips, spreads, condiments... you get the gist.  Anything that turns a basic roasted veggie or grilled protein into something delicious that you will crave!

I use each with moderation, of course, but still find that even the lightest drizzle of a flavorful sauce can add SO much "oomph" to any simple meal.