So, here we are...

I sat down to compile my Way Back Wednesday post for this week...and I couldn't do it. On the one hand, maybe we all need a little escape and some recipe ideas. On the other hand, it felt a little tone-deaf.

We started isolating Wednesday night. Early Wednesday afternoon, Jack heard from Notre Dame that he wouldn't be going back to campus until 4-13 at the earliest. The Houston Rodeo was canceled right after that. We immediately left the house to stock up on groceries (and only 2 packages of TP!) and cat food. Other than to go outside or go for a drive, we haven't been out since.

So, where does this leave the blog right now? I always work from home - but this is different. My plan is to bring you some simple recipes that can work with some substitutes. (I'm doing some of that already on Instagram.) I don't want to encourage anyone to venture out for specialty ingredients. Although, I'm guessing we'll all need to hit the stores or do some online ordering at some point during the upcoming weeks/months.

Here are the baking things I bought for my pantry/fridge:

• flour: all-purpose and bread
• sugar: all kinds :)
• butter: salted, unsalted, spreadable
• eggs
• cream cheese
• yeast
• salt
• baking powder and soda
• cocoa powder: regular and Dutch
• chocolate: a variety of chips + some bars
• milk: 2%, buttermilk, powdered
• vanilla extract

Of course, I have all of the things I already had on hand: espresso powder, sprinkles, food coloring, etc. etc. 

A lot of baking can happen with those ingredients. I really will try to keep things simple. Please reach out if you need a substitution for any recipe on the blog, and we'll see what we can come up with together.

I like to keep the blog full of hearts and happiness, and sugar. The truth is...I'm filled with anxiety. I ordered $100 of art supplies online at 2:30am this morning when I couldn't sleep from worry. In the midst of the worry, I'm so thankful for so many things: healthcare workers, Amazon employees, grocery store staff, that Jack is home, that my husband still has a job, that we're healthy. That's when the anxiety spills over into guilt. It's a vicious cycle. Just me? You too? 

I'm not sure if I need more Jesus, more chocolate, or to break open the vodka. All three???

Anyway...sending you all virtual hugs and elbow bumps from a safe distance. ♥ Let's stay home together. And for those of you who can't, thank you for your service in helping the rest of us. Take care...all of you! 

From Fr. Goyo: 

"Lord, help me 

Be prepared, but not anxious.

Be aware, but not desperate.

Be vigilant, but not in fear.

Be joyful, but not clueless. 

Be faithful, but not careless.

Lord, be my hope and strength."