How’s the summer heat been treating you? It’s been the hottest week of the summer here, but I’m not complaining. After the absolutely brutal winter we had in CNY, there is no reason at all to whine about some sunshine. I’m definitely looking on the bright side here.
I have to say, the warmth has not kept me out of the kitchen. I just put the air on or open a window, because nothing stops The Smart Cookie Cook. Did you miss a bite or two this week? No worries. Let’s review:
- Strawberry Cream Pie with Chocolate Chip Cookie Crust
- Lemon Parmesan Potato, Zucchini & Chickpea Skillet
- Smart Cookie Shopping 57
I could use a honking slice of that cool and creamy Strawberry Cream Pie right about now. I’m trying to take it easy on the indulging as of lately though because I went and injured my shoulder, so I can’t workout as much as I’d like to. I’m still staying active, but modifying it to be safe.
Luckily, the Les Mills BODYSTEP class I teach is focused on the legs, so I’m still teaching for now. And it helps to have a fitness partner to match with.
I’m loving the new Reebok leggings for teaching in. How cute are they? They feel like a second-skin.
Of course, I still indulged in date night last weekend. Ry and I went to our spot, the Olive Garden, and we feasted like champs. We always make each other proud with our abilities to pack it in: breadsticks, alfredo dipping sauce, Lasagna Fritta, salad, and a Choose-Your-Own Tour of Italy for each of us. We cleaned house.
You might’ve seen a few weeks back that The Smart Cookie Cook was featured on First Site Guide’s Best Food Bloggers to Follow list, and they were kind enough to send me this adorable carton Cookie they made:
I am excited to say I tried homemade jelly for the first time. My boss’ husband makes it, so she brought in a jar of raspberry jelly for me to try. I knew it’d be good, but wow, I had no idea what I was missing! Now I think I’ll be too spoiled to go back to store-bought jelly.
That was my breakfast yesterday. For lunch, I whipped up this Double Cheese Quesadilla with Fresh Arugula, and it was only about 200 calories. That’s indulging right!
It just wouldn’t be a Weekender without a picture of at least one of my fur babies. Little Mina loves to cuddle with shoes, so you can bet she’s in heaven here.
See you Monday!