Odds & Ends
1. There's no better time than Lent to think about grace, and this article "Grace, Period." really hits it home!
2. Have you had Trader Joe's Sea Salt & Turbinado Sugar Dark Chocolate Almonds? If you haven't, try at your own risk. If you have, you know what I'm talking about. These things are basically heaven in a bite. I cannot get enough! You best pick some up next time you're at Trader Joe's. (And if you aren't lucky enough to have a Trader Joe's in your city, I found a homemade copycat version when I was googling for an image of them...I think I'll be trying these soon!)

3. I have long read I Am Baker's blog needless to say, was psyched when I received a copy of her new book "surprise-inside cakes". As impressive as that heart cake on the cover is, my jaw literally dropped as I turned the pages; each cake is more beautiful than the last! I'm so excited (and simultaneously nervous!) to give one of her creations a try...I've already recruited my sisters-in-law to tackle the challenge with me (remember when Kate and I made the Where the Wild Things Are cake?). Are YOU up for the challenge? The publisher has offered to send one of my readers a copy of the book! To enter the giveaway to receive Amanda's cookbook, leave a comment on this post sharing the most challenge dessert you've ever made! I'll pick a winner on Tuesday the 25th, so be sure to enter before 8 pm central that day. Winner will be picked via Random Number Generator and contacted via email, so be sure to leave your email! Commenter #4, Stephanie, was picked via Random Number Generator!

4. I'm on a big sandwich kick, and we've been getting a ton of use out of our panini press lately. It's a great lunch or dinner option when you're short on time, but somehow a warm, pressed sandwich is so much fancier than a standard pb&j (not that I EVER turn down a pb&j!). However, some of my favorite sandwiches don't need a panini press, in case you're without. Try these fancy roast beef and feta sandwiches, pictured above, or the spinach, pear, and cranberry pinwheels!
One Year Ago: Whole Wheat Oatmeal Yogurt Waffles
Two Years Ago: Enlightened Greek Salad with Chicken
Three Years Ago: Tuna and Vegetable Salad
Four Years Ago: Sweet Potato Bread