5 thing Friday - freezer cleanout/restock, backyard relaxation, paver re-do, ice cream, Girl Lunch

For the last few weeks I had been doing little grocery runs for fillers and eating meals made of what I had left in the freezer.

I got myself organized with everything I wanted to do for the morning.

I made some containers for work: Beefy Spaghetti, Chicken and Lentil Tikka Masala with rice, and Veggie and Chicken Korma with rice.  Eight containers that should make Friday food prep easier for almost a month. Pasta and rice dishes generally heat up really well for me at work.

Then I wiped down the inside of the freezer and bought some things from Trader Joe's that I think will be both appetizing, and easy to cook.  I will fill in with sandwiches and the occasional meal out.

I bought a new strap for the vintage binoculars - worth it to not accidentally drop this thing on my concrete patio.  I have been spending lots of time in the backyard, listening to and watching birds.  So relaxing.

I got the firepit put up and hauled the lounger over to the shade.  A perfect place to unwind with a glass of wine.  Now I need a pretty lumbar pillow.

Then I reworked the pavers (again!) and will gift the others to a friend for her garden. (she also has the timber from the Cannary kid's playscape!)

 The two piece design was making it easy for the oak sprigs to push up between the pavers.  And it was impossible to keep them level.  While I was at it, I used some random ones to make a small little "plant patio" under the window.  That's how it goes with projects sometimes - tweak it 'til you get it just right.

And then reward yourself with a treat - sweet cream ice cream with bananas and caramel swirl in a waffle dish at Coldstone's.  That hit the spot.  Our days are pushing 100 degrees now and rain is nowhere in sight!

Another way to cool it down - Girl Lunch.  This week: fresh peaches, water crackers, Caesar Salad dip, prosciutto rolled with mozzarella, pinot noir rose.  Better than take-out!

Gina