Our Week In A Nutshell & Peanut Butter Protein Bites

This week went by fast. How is Thanksgiving already on Thursday.  Shopping for the feast is always a madhouse. That is why I do my shopping before 8 am. 

I try not to overlook Thanksgiving too much with all the Christmas going on. We do play Christmas music all day long from the radio. It's the way to go. No having to stop and worry about changing a CD. Playing music really helps bring the holiday spirit into our home, as well as hit a few tender nerves,  such as when Christmas Shoes plays or songs of Christ come on. (Bring on the Kleenex ).

 Sunny got an early Christmas gift. This GORGEOUS table and chair set was made by a sweet neighbor. I seriously can't stop looking at it and everything i've dreamed of having for Sunny (to pass down to generations even)

Yesterday afternoon we headed to the park. Then later that night we headed to a movie, then over to family,  and watched a Christmas movie.

          She loves hanging or swinging on        bars. Maybe gymnastics in her future??

                           Loves the slide

                 Fresh Autumn air is just what                                        she needs.

                         Loves to expore

I started reading these two parenting books.

Jo, from Super Nanny, discusses raising toddlers and effective ways to discipline.  The second book, Bringing Up Bebe, is about one woman's experience raising her toddler in Paris and how different Europe's approach is to the US approach on discipline and raising kids.  I highly recommend both these books. They are huge eye-openers to me and I see a major difference in Sunny's behavior. 

Here is one of my favorite protein snacks. One of these bites really hits the spot. They are packed with fiber, protein, and taste great. I love offering these to Sunny when she needs a bit ofprotein. These are also great to pack up in a sandwich bag when we are out n about running around and need a pick me up. Perfect snack anytime.

Peanut Butter, Chocolate Chip & Oatmeal Energy Protein Bars (Ball shaped).

 No Baking Required & Sugar Free.

2 c. Oats
1 c. All Natural Peanut Butter
1 c. Ground golden flaxseed
1/4 c. Chia seed
1/4 c. Shredded Coconut (unsweetened preferred)
1/2 c. Agave nectar or honey. You can reduce this and add 1/4 c.
2-3 T. Coconut oil
2 tsp. Vanilla extract
Mini chocolate chips

If you don't want chocolate chips, you can opt for dried fruit such as blueberry or cherries chopped up.

Combine everything in a bowl and shape into balls. Place on parchment paper on flat surface and refrigerate a couple hours. Ready to eat.