Above all else...

I definitely need this reminder often...sometimes hourly!

(Lol, as a side note, I just noticed the "b" is missing from Proverbs.) :)

Super Easy Fettuccine Alfredo

For one of my bridal shower gifts, I received an envelope of recipes that my friends had compiled, full of favorites they wanted to pass on to me as a soon to be newlywed.

This fettuccine alfredo was one of them, and is always a treat when I get a chance to make it.

I love how simple it is to throw together, and I usually have the ingredients right on hand.


All you need is:

-1 pound fettuccine noodles, cooked
-8 ounces cream cheese
-1 stick butter
-i cup milk
-3/4 cup parmesan cheese

Then:

Melt cream cheese and butter in sauce pan. Next, add milk plus parmesan cheese, and stir till well combined. Finally, pour sauce over fettuccine pasta, and you're done!

If you want to make it more hearty, you can also add cooked broccoli or chunks of cooked chicken as well. I also like to season my alfredo to taste with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and parsley flakes.

Enjoy! :)

Falling for the Fireman by Allie Pleiter

I recently won a copy of this book on a blog giveaway, and was looking forward to receiving it, especially as I've never read anything from the "Love Inspired" collection of inspirational fiction before.

Here's a summary of the story:

There's something achingly familiar about the look in fire marshal Chad Owens's eyes. Widowed mom Jeannie Nelworth knows firsthand what it is: loss, hurt and yes—bitterness. Ever since the fire that changed their lives, Jeannie's young son has borne that same look, pushing everyone away. So she's grateful when Chad tries to get through to the boy with the help of his trusty fire station dog.

But the man who's all about safety and prevention keeps himself protected—from loving and losing again. Seems as if Jeannie will have to add his kind, guarded heart to her rebuilding efforts.

I think Falling for the Fireman is a lovely novel, and I enjoyed getting to know the characters Allie created. For a shorter story, she does a great job of keeping the plot thoroughly cohesive and involving.

Chad and Jeannie are very likeable and their gradual romance sweet to witness, especially after what they've gone through in the past. Jeannie's son, Nick, also adds some nice tension to the story, as he continues to struggle with the aftermath of losing his dad in a house fire. His actions seem consistent with those of a typical thirteen year old, and the ways he tries to cope by acting out, made me feel for him.

The issues Allie brings to light in this book are important ones that don't get covered all the time, so I commend her for handling the subjects here sensitively and honestly. It's nice to see that a shorter length novel doesn't have to necessarily mean "fluff only" reading, but, in case you're wondering,  there are still lighter moments in here as well.

All in all, I really enjoyed my first venture into the Love Inspired line and look forward to reading more from this author.