With all the extra dates I've had around the house these past few weeks I've been trying to find ways of creating yummy snacks with these super fruits. Dates are naturally sweet so they make a great healthier alternative for food sweetening and some of the benefits include digestive, skin, and cholesterol health to just name a few. This recent recipe was so easy it almost seems unreal. It can be altered to fit whatever taste you're desiring, and it's a great grab-and-go option for those busy days. ​

This latest recipe find has become the perfect addition to my bread obsession rotation. I'm always looking for healthier, new options to bake and recently most of my breads have used almond flour instead of wheat or white flour, but this recipe brings me right back to the whole-wheat/white flour combo that I've so traditionally loved. It hasn't disappointed and makes for a delicious afternoon treat, or side item to add to the breakfast plate. Just toast and top with a little melted butter and you have a delicious baked good that's unique and even on the healthier side of breads. 

I have found, for me, that breakfast is the most challenging time of the day to try and eat healthy. I am, without a doubt, a breakfast gal! I love everything sweet - pancakes, waffles, muffins, crepes - you name it, I probably love it as long as it's sweet and breakfast-y.
Now don't get me wrong, I enjoy a good omelet, a bagel at times and even the traditional eggs, toast and a meat course, but I just can't pass up that sweet treat in the morning. 

This is certainly not the healthiest of recipes but, we had this during a family weekend a few weeks ago and it has been on my mind since. With fall right around the corner, this is a winning recipe for those family events, football game tailgates or cool fall evening gatherings. It's easy, tasty, and surely one that will leave folks wanting more! 

Well, guys I have decided to accept another challenge. This is turning out to be the year of accepting challenges - squat challenge, reading challenge, now eating challenge. I'm a little nervous to see what else is in the works for me this year, but there's nothing like testing yourself and your limits. So, I say bring it on! 

I have been hearing non-stop about this Whole30 eating challenge that's been circulating my friends groups and social media. Now, I have never been one to diet or obsess over eating. Those who know me well know that I love nothing more than to grub on some yummy food. So, why I chose to accept this challenge of knocking out some of the yummiest foods from my menu for an entire month? I have no idea! But, here I am coming to the end of my first week of participating in the Whole30 challenge. Boy, it's going to be a long month. I'm excited, feeling good and always willing to accept a personal challenge - it's only 30 days, right?  

We had attempted Chicken Tacos a few weeks before and weren't satisfied by them. So, we decided to try again. This time with ground beef. We were so pleased with how they turned out. It was easy and tasty! We will be trying it again. 

This recipe was slightly altered from  JaysBakingMeCrazy  

Ingredients: 
​
1/3 Cup Bacon Grease 
6-7 Large Potatoes 
1 Large Onion 
5 Large Garlic Cloves 
Salt (to taste) 
​7-8 Cups of Chicken Broth 
1 1/2 Tsp Italian Seasoning 
Pepper (to taste)
Italian Sausage (topping) 

Directions: 
1. Mix the bacon grease in a large pot with the Potatoes, Onions, and Garlic. Add Salt (to taste as needed). 
2. Cook on medium for about 10-15 minutes until Potatoes are tender. 
3. Add the broth and seasonings - simmer for about 5 minutes 
4. Cook the sausage in a skillet over heat until cooked through
5. Keep warm and serve with the sausage and seasonings (to taste)