Spicy Chicken Pasta With Tomato Cream Sauce

Ahhh guys, I'm just pitiful. Has half of June really gone by without a single blog post?

I suppose I have nothing but meaningless excuses to make. You know, too busy. Uninspired. But I know you don't want to hear my excuses because the truth is that maybe I've been just a bit lazy recently. You have time for the things you make time to do and that's all there really is to that!

I will say that I tried a new recipe this week and it turned out just fantastic. While we were eating, Casey said that it may just be his new favorite dish! Mine too, hubs. (Maybe I shouldn't have just said that? Oh well.)

The funny thing is that my aunt Dee commented on this picture on Facebook asking, "Is the oregano considered the vegetable? ;)" to which I just laughed and informed her that "No, of course not! There's tomatoes in the sauce, silly!"

That's when I found out that tomatoes are indeed a FRUIT and not a vegetable. Who would have known.

Anyway I'm sure you're curious as to how I made this delightful little delicousy come into being! I got the original recipe from Julia's Album AKA Pinterest. She used shrimp which actually sounds fan-freaking-tastic but I had chicken because it was cheap so that's what I used. And it turned out delicious!

I did tweak her recipe just a tad, so here is basically what I did:

Ingredients

2 TBS Olive Oil

1 LB Chicken/Shrimp

Crushed Red Pepper (depends on how spicy you like it!)

Paprika (didn't have it so I just used a little cayenne pepper/chili powder, once again to taste)

Salt

1 Small Onion, chopped (I just omitted because I didn't have one but would be good)

4 Garlic Cloves, minced

1 Can of Diced Tomatoes (or 1 3/4 cup of fresh)

1/4 cup Chicken Broth

1 TBS Basil

1/4 TS Oregano

1/2 Cup Heavy Cream

8 oz. Penne Pasta, cooked according to box directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet at medium to medium-high heat. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and cook until done, about 5-10 minutes. While it is cooking, sprinkle with crushed red pepper, a little chili powder/cayenne pepper/paprika, and salt.

2. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.

3. In the same skillet in the leftover oil, add the onion and minced garlic and cook on medium heat and cook for about 2 minutes or so.

4. Add tomatoes, chicken broth, basil and oregano. Simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with more crushed red pepper, cayenne pepper, and/or salt if needed. In the last couple of minutes, add the heavy cream and stir. Immediately remove from heat.

5. Add the chicken/shrimp and pasta to the sauce. Reheat on low to a simmer. Because of the heavy cream, stir frequently and do not bring to a full-on boil.

That's it! This recipe is decently easy, and I personally keep most of these ingredients on hand so it's fairly inexpensive also. The best part is that there are no cream of chicken soup or packet of mix or jarred sauces in this recipe, which is great if you're like me and trying to avoid as many processed foods as possible. If you're trying to avoid calories, try substituting the heavy cream for cream cheese or greek yogurt! And if you're like my Aunt D, you could easily brighten up this dish with some greens like broccoli or spinach.

Do you like to make your own homemade pasta sauces? What are your favorite recipes? :)

And if you try this one out, let me know what you think!

Skin Cleanse and the American Beauty Industry

Now let me begin this post by saying that my views on these American industries and the products they produce are (mostly) not new ones. I've just been once again reminded of the truth since reading Skin Cleanse by Adina Grigore, and I'm making the decision to do something about it. If the information in this post interests you, I would strongly encourage you to check out her book! (Literally, if you find it at the library like I did :)

About a year ago, I worked at a hair salon downtown as a receptionist. This woman didn't carry brands that you would see in most beauty shops such as Redken, Big Sexy Hair, Paul Mitchell, etc. She was really big on a brand called ColourProof, but also sold a few other ones I hadn't ever really heard of. I didn't really question it because I was mostly there to pick up the phone and clean. I later found out that the reason for her choice in products was the ingredients in them. I had never really thought of it.

It was during those months working there that I had first ever heard the word paraben. Maybe you have, but don't know what it is or why it can be harmful to you.

Let me just take a second to chime in that the beauty industry is technically under supervision of the FDA, but it is basically almost entirely unregulated. Do some reasearch, or read more about it in Skin Cleanse. I find that a little unsettling.

Parabens are chemicals that many brands in the beauty industry put in their products to kill bacteria and prevent it from growing. Sounds like a good thing. If you look at the ingredient list for your deodorant, makeup, or skincare products, you may find the words methylparaben, propylparaben, or butylparaben. If you don't, I'm sure the word "fragarance" is found. Really specific, right?

When you apply that deodorant or facial cream, the product and all of the chemical ingredients that it is made of don't just sit on your skin. They are absorbed into your pores and then into your blood stream and into your body.

The reason they are harmful is because they are one suspected cause of Breast Cancer. Parabens have been found in cancerous tumors on the breast, and researchers believe there is a link. I just recently learned from this Good Human Article that a reason parabens are dangerous in our bodies is because they are xenoestrogens, and therefore mimic the real thing, oestrogen, in the body. They're artificial and unnatural.

Most beauty products, especially those of the most popular brands, are filling their products with these and other things, such as: formaldehyde (a classified carcinogen), polyethylene/PE/phthalates (plastic), petroleum (think petroleum jelly, but it is linked to kidney and liver abnormality and damaged cell membranes), asbestos (another carcinogen), and lead/lead acetate (do a little research on the lead paints Queen Elizabeth used and how it leads to infertility, seizures, and can be fatal if consumed topically over time). I learned about these other commonly used ingredients in Skin Cleanse accredit the information to the author. The scary thing is that you may not even notice any immediate side effects, but absorbing these ingredients into your blood system every single day (think about how many products you use, including soaps, lotions, makeup, etc.) over a long extended period of time could have some harmful effects.

If you're new to the concept of avoiding these and other harmful chemicals, you may think that it's going to be extremely difficult and expensive, but it's really not! Target sells some organic/natural brands that are safe to use and at reasonable costs, including:

1. S-W Basics, created by the author of Skin Cleanse and has 5 Ingredients or less!
2. Carol's Daughter, a brand which I was just browsing last night at Target. I'm pretty sure the next time I need shampoo or conditioner, I'm going to try this brand.
3. EDEN Body Works
4. SheaMoisture
5. Tom's of Maine, this is a link to their ladies' deodorant, which I now use.
5. And more natural haircare, the page on the Target website for all paraben and other harmful-chemical free products

It doesn't get any more easily-accessible than Target! Rule of thumb is that if it doesn't state on label that it is paraben-free, it probably isn't. Be sure, however, to still read the ingredient list carefully and know what you are putting in your body.

If you're like me, you probably have a ton of products in your home that you use that have parabens, and to go buy new face wash, deodorant, shampoo and conditioner, and all other hair and skincare products would be crazy expensive. Just start with one thing at a time, or try making your own! Search on Pinterest for "DIY toner" or whatever other product you need and you'll be surprised to see how easy it can be. You probably already have most of the ingredients you need in your kitchen!

It all begins with being informed, but the choice is yours!

10 Easy Healthy Foods For The Picky Eater

I mentioned in my last post that I'm reading the book Skin Cleanse, and it has really had me thinking lately about my diet and the way I eat. Because, let's face it, I haven't exactly gained the reputation for being health-concious. The older I've gotten, the more information I've learned and the more bad habits I've been shedding.

For example, up until a year or so ago, I drank Dr. Pepper every single day like it was going out of style. For many years it was basically all I drank. Chef Boyardee, frozen pizzas, pizza in general, and candy bars were my favorite foods.

I've always been a picky eater, but I'm working on branching out, trying new things, and eating more of the healthy foods I do like.

Today I'm going to name some easy ways to incorporate healthy foods into your everyday diet that don't necessarily mean living off of raw brussel sprouts. You should know, however, that this is not necessarily a post about magical foods that will help you to lose weight. It's more about choosing healthier foods that have vitamins, minerals, and other important things our bodies need.

So if you're a picky eater like me (or are responsible for feeding one!), here are some easy ways to replace those bad eating habits with good ones:

1. Organic/Greek Yogurt. I've always loved yogurt, but it was more like the sugary kinds filled with artificial ingredients. My husband works at the Fresh Market, which is a grocery store that sells a lot of organic food options, and this is where I get mine. If you don't have a store like this in your town, I would recommend Greek yogurt, or even yogurts made from coconut or almond milk. They're better for you than say, Yoplait, even if you're not lactose-intolerant.

2. Raw Carrots. I know a lot of people who may not eat raw cauliflower, but they'll eat raw carrots. You can dip them in a dressing if you'd like!

3. Cocoa-Dusted Almonds. Landen at Measure and Whisk just recently posted a ridiculously easy recipe for these and I can't wait to try it! Almonds and other nuts in general are fantastic for you and are an easy snack to carry around with you. You could even make a trail mix with raisins or other dried fruits!

4. Baked Sweet Potatoes. Literally all you have to do is put one of these bad boys in the oven for maybe an hour or so, depending on their size. They're delicious, easy to make, inexpensive, and a great super-food for their nutritional benefits!

5. Roasted Broccoli. You can put some broccoli florets (I always recommend fresh veggies instead of  frozen or canned) on a pan, drizzle some olive oil on them, and bake them at 425 degrees F for about 10 minutes. When they're finished, sprinkle some salt, pepper, or even parmesan cheese on them if you'd like. Delicious! You can also do this with many other veggies for an easy and delicious side or snack!

6. Greek-Yogurt Covered Blueberries. I found this recipe on Pinterest, and here's the link to the recipe. It's a super easy and delicious summertime snack!

7. Overnight Oats. I've got the ingredients and this is happening at my house tonight. The basics include rolled oats, milk (I'm using unsweetened almond milk), and greek yogurt (not necessary but if you want it a bit creamier) in a mason jar overnight. Here's a link to a ton of yummy recipes, that include adding blueberries, strawberries, bananas, peanut butter, etc. to make an even better breakfast that's full of anti-oxidants, protein, fiber, and more!

8. Organic Protein Bars. I say "organic" simply because not every protein or claimed health bar on the market is necessarily good for you. I used to get Special K protein and granola bars because I thought they were good for me, but they're still full of artificial ingredients and sugar. My favorite brands are Luna Bars (70% organic) and thinkThin bars. I also like Cliff Bars, which are more widely available. They have a lot of vitamins/minerals, and are good replacement when you're craving that Milky Way. I wouldn't recommend these to be meal replacements (maybe breakfast every once in awhile if you're in a hurry) but they're really good and good for you!

9. Baked Chicken Instead of Fried. I drizzle some olive oil and add spices like sea salt, pepper, thyme, onion powder, garlic powder, and oregano on chicken breasts and bake them at 350 degrees for about 30 minutes. I sometimes bake mine a little longer because I'd rather have dry chicken than salmonella poisoning. This simple recipe is infinitely better for you than fried chicken, and you can do so many things with it! I love it on a salad :)

10. Baked Sweet Potato Chips. Okay, so I haven't tried this one yet but how could this not be delicious? All you do is slice a sweet potato into thin pieces, drizzle with olive oil, and bake at 275 for 50 minutes, flipping halfway through. I would try also adding honey and cinnamon. Yummy! And so much better for you than those processed, greasy chips!


These are simply my own ideas for how I incorporate healthier foods into my diet. Just remember the road to a healthier lifestyle doesn't have to happen overnight! I'm certainly not there yet, and I'm almost constantly learning new nutritional facts. If you were to do only one thing, it should be to drink more water and eat less sugar. I'm working on this but definitely not where I want to be!

Do you strive to eat a healthier diet? What are your favorite snacks or meal items?

Hi...still here!

Okay so I've been really bad about posting this week. In my defense, I've been working much more than usual due to inventory in our store. If you've ever worked in retail, you know how completely exhausted I am. I treated myself to frozen yogurt on Friday, as you can see above. I will try to be better about posting this week!


In the mean time, how about some random favorites?

Have you ever watched one of Estee's videos on her blog Essie Button? She's about as cute as she could possibly be. She just did a fashion haul that you should definitely check out!

I just picked up this book Skin Cleanse from the library today and I'm already I think 30 pages into it? It has been so interesting so far! I can't wait to try some of her DIY skincare recipes. It's totally an easy read too.

I have been wearing E.L.F's Smudge Pot Eyeshadow in Ain't That Sweet every. single. day. since I bought it a couple of weeks ago. It's the perfect amount of shimmer combined with the perfect neutral shade (I guess if you're pale like me?). By the way, it looks pink online but it's really not in person. For only three dollars you just can't go wrong.

I bought this adorable skirt in pink print from Old Navy when it was on sale this week for only ten dollars. Best ten dollars I've spent in awhile, I'll tell you that. It's crazy comfortable and also really cute! I'm pretty sure it's going to get some good wear this summer. Mine's an extra small because the small was strangely a little big, but it has a stretchy elastic band in case it loosens up.

The weather has been so perfect this week, around 80 degrees everyday. I'm beyond ready for summer!

How was your week? :)

Mass Nostalgia

This weekend I watched some of my best friends graduate from the Christian college I attended for 2 years, the one that my husband graduated from last year.

It was a good graduation, and I'm so happy and excited for my friends as they make decisions over the next few months regarding where God wants them to be.

It's just crazy hard to believe that four years passed so quickly. I remember packing and loading cardboard boxes filled with my belongings and taking the thirty minute trip to the college that I would attend for two years. I learned so much, and I changed as a person so much more than I ever thought possible. The college experience overall had its many up and downs, but I wouldn't have traded it for anything in the world. I made lifelong friends that mean the world to me. We crammed for tests, made happy hour Sonic runs (accidentally getting the Route 64 size ha!), talked about everything, and laughed together far more than we cried. These were some of the best years of my life.

But don't get me wrong, I love where I am now. I love my husband, our apartment, our church, and the life we're building together. I'm so excited about what God has planned for us because I just know it's going to be awesome. He's been so good to us in the area of godly friendships and I'm so thankful for that, because I know it's not something that everyone has. It was something I didn't have for a time in my life and that I don't want to take for granted now.

But time moves on, and so do we. We grow up and do different things and move to different places. But these people will forever be stamped on my heart. 

A Christian Style/Beauty Blog? Is That Even Possible?

Now, I'm going to begin this post by reminding you that this is a self-proclaimed style/beauty/Christian blog. Does that seem a little oxymoronic to you? Sometimes to me it has. If you're a Christian who struggles with the idea of having a blog that also features topics like beauty, fashion, or other things that have gained the reputation for being "vain", keep reading.

I'm a total girl. I absolutely love updating my wardrobe, learning a new way to style an article of clothing, and trying a new lip color, and I love blogs that feature posts on these topics. Here on Lace, Pearls, and Grace you will see me blog about things like this from time to time. These labels can make up one difficult combination to balance.

The reason is because blogs are a form of media, and similar to magazines like Seventeen, fashion ads, and television, they can sometimes portray that beauty is wearing the right clothes, having the ideal body washed in the perfect tan, and really just possessing things.

Our culture portrays a really messed up definition of beauty because the truth is that it's version is completely unattainable. We can't be perfect, no matter how hard we try. We are inherintly flawed due to our sin, and no amount of clothes, shoes, time in the tanning bed, or beauty products can change that. It's also important to remember that the girls in magazine ads and blog posts aren't perfect either. Their lives may appear to be perfect, but they're not. They're flawed and imperfect, too, and the truth is that they're all just searching for the same thing. We all have an emptiness inside of us that can only be filled with God.

That's what makes blogging about these topics together difficult. But can it be done? I believe so.

I believe that the key to maintaining a style/beauty blog as a Christian is to remember where you find true fulfillment, satisfaction, and joy. No, it's not in that new pair of shoes or the perfectly attained cat eye. It's in Jesus Christ. If ever I try to find these things that He alone offers in anything else, I will be left feeling disappointed and unfulfilled. But is having a love for style or beauty necessarily wrong? No, as long as you keep everything in proper perspective. God must come first, and everything else follows.

Maybe you're also a Christian blogger who happens to have a passion for these things. Or maybe yours is travel, cooking, or something else! I encourage you to keep blogging about what you love, but remember that at the end of the day, Christ is all that matters and He is the only place you will find true fulfillment.



I love reading your comments! What is your perspective on blogging? How do you keep Christ first while also blogging about the things you love?

The Top That Chose Me

So I was at Target last week, totally minding my own business, when this adorable Lily Pulitzer top in my size made its way toward me on a cart heading to the front with the other Lily returns.

"Hey, do you mind if I take that?" as I quickly snatched this little beauty into my own possession. I'm pretty sure if it had made it to the front, it wouldn't have lasted 5 minutes. So I tried it on and it was a perfect fit!

When I heard how quickly the Lily items sold out the day that they launched at Target, I literally didn't think I was ever going to own a piece. My cheap self just wouldn't fork out the money for something in one of their regular stores or on their website, so I just kind of accepted it and went on with life as it was. And honestly, I admire their styles because they're just so pretty and colorful, but I'm not necessarily one to be a brand-snob. So I was okay with not having anything Lily.

But it was 22 dollars so HOW THE HECK COULD I NOT? It's a limited edition, most likely only happening once-in-a-lifetime thing so I had to. I just had to.

When I got up to the register, I joked with the cashier about how I didn't pick this shirt but how it picked me...ha! :)

And this is how I styled it :) It actually has thicker straps, probably one to two inches, so I will definitely be wearing it a lot this summer by itself maybe with a pair of shorts or jeans or something. Did I mention how happy these colors make me?

And of course I paired it with my knock-off Jack Rogers because if you're going for preppy you may as well go all out.

How about you? Did you get to snag any Lily Pulitzer pieces from Target this season? :)