“The Case of the Missing Phones 👀 (Thanks, Charlie!)”

Hey friend,

The other morning started like any other—until I couldn’t find my phone. I didn’t think much of it at first (mom brain, right?), but by mid-morning, it was nowhere to be found. I went the entire day without it. And honestly? It ended up being a really nice break. I played more, paid attention more, and felt a little freer not having it within arm’s reach.

Still, I didn’t want to completely shut out the world forever, so the next morning Andy and I decided to do a real search. Just as we started, Charlie grabbed Andy’s phone and disappeared into the closet. A minute later, he came out proudly holding both phones tucked into his little toolbox.

Turns out our 18-month-old had been storing them like treasure. He was so proud of himself—like, “Look what I found!” We couldn’t stop laughing. Who knew toddlers could be so clever?

This week’s recipe is a nod to keeping things simple when life feels a little chaotic…

Featured Recipe: One-Pan Chicken Fajita Bake 🌶️

Minimal mess, big flavor, and easy cleanup—yes, please.

Ingredients:

• 3 chicken breasts, sliced

• 3 bell peppers (any color), sliced

• 1 red onion, sliced

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp taco seasoning

• Salt + pepper to taste

• Juice of 1 lime

• Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.

2. On a large baking sheet, toss chicken, peppers, and onions with olive oil and seasonings.

3. Spread into an even layer and bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway.

4. Squeeze lime juice over the top and serve in warm tortillas or over rice.

Weekly Meal Ideas 📝

Monday: Chicken Fajita Bake (above)
Tuesday: Taco Night – Try beef or lentil tacos with your favorite fixings
Wednesday: Pesto Pasta with Peas + Rotisserie Chicken
Thursday: Mini Sliders + Sweet Potato Fries
Friday: Pizza Night – Go classic or veggie-loaded with mushrooms, spinach, & olives
Saturday: Greek Bowls – Chicken, rice, cucumbers, tomatoes, and hummus
Sunday: Veggie Fried Rice + Scrambled Eggs

Quick Snack: Toddler Trail Mix 🍓

Make your own mix with:

• Cheerios or puffed rice cereal

• Freeze-dried strawberries or blueberries

• Mini pretzels

• Raisins or chopped dates

• Dairy-free chocolate chips (optional)

Toss it all in a reusable container and go!

Time-Saving Tip

If your toddler’s into “helping,” make the most of it! Give them a job like putting spoons on the table or “washing” veggies in a bowl. It might slow things down, but it gives them a sense of ownership—and keeps them busy during dinner prep!

Encouragement for the Week 💛

Sometimes the best days are the unplanned ones. Phones tucked in toolboxes, missed to-do lists, spontaneous snack times... these ordinary, beautiful interruptions are where life really happens.

You’re doing great.

—Cara