I don't like the term "food restrictions." It just feels so... sad. And while there are certain things that people with food sensitivities and allergies have to accept (bread made from wheat has no equal — just the way it is), there are always foods that can step in and provide a delicious meal. My […]
When I was growing up, we'd visit my Grandma, who kept a cowbell in the kitchen. Whenever dinner was ready, she'd ring the bell, and it would clang loud enough to let those in her third floor bedrooms know that there was food on the table. The sound became Pavlovian for me, and now when […]
We're a couple weeks into 2024, and it's usually about now when the motivation to keep our New Year's resolutions begins to fizzle out. Did you know that there is something called National Quitter's Day? It's a different day every year (always within the 2nd or 3rd week of January) when most people quit their […]
Soup season is upon us, and is there anything better than lifting the lid off of the pot for a steamy soup facial? These six soups are basically all stars, packed with so much flavor and creaminess and heartiness that you won't miss the gluten or the dairy. Dare I say it? They're better than […]
Striped Dish Towel | Glass Food Containers No matter what time of year is it, we could all use a little more time. And when things get busy, sticking to health goals gets tricky. But with this simple meal prep idea, you can have a week's worth of high protein meals with no dairy, no […]
Although the Christmas decorations have all been packed away, we're still on a high from our holiday break. It was a pretty special year, not only because it was my parents' first Christmas in North Carolina, but Chris's parents decided to fly out for a week, as well! My in-laws stayed in our guest house […]
Scrolling back through a year of recipes, I'm really excited about where I am with my cooking. I feel like 2023 was the year I really embraced everything I've learned around cooking for food restrictions, creating a mix of original dishes, as well as remixing a few classics to be more allergy-friendly. And as much […]
Side Table | Acrylic Bookstand | Candle Warmer | Picture Frame | CLJ x Lola Blanket | Tabletop Tree | Candlesticks | Wooden Beads 1. Neck Pillow | $59 2023 gave me a literal crick in my neck. FOR MONTHS. (I went to the doctor and it was stress related. kewl) This pillow has been […]
In 2024, we are celebrating 15 years of Chris Loves Julia. It's a huge milestone and, to be honest, there was a time this year when I didn't know if we were going to make it to that bench mark. Not because there was anything at risk with our relationship, or our brand or opportunities […]
Making prime rib feels difficult, doesn't it? Just the sound of it is intimidating. Two obvious reasons for that are how expensive it is (hate to mess up an $80 6lb roast!) and how complicated most recipes are. Everyone seems to have this trick or that to make the best prime rib recipe, but how […]
I'm a crewneck sweater girlie. I'm not big on v-necks or hoods (they're not absent from my wardrobe, I just don't gravitate toward them), and there's something so classic about a crewneck — like you could leave any moment on a nautical voyage or get tagged in for a game of touch football. I've been […]
A friend of mine recently called me for ideas for hosting her in-laws, who will be in town for the holidays for four days. Together, we brainstormed what works when it comes to entertaining out-of-towners (aka it's fun but low stress for you and not too tiring). We came up with a comprehensive list for […]
You know I love a side dish that comes together fast. And while this one just misses my "5 minute side" designation, it's not far from at only 10 minutes and a whole bunch of delicious. Very "holiday" feeling, and easy peasy. White Baking Dish | Copper Candlesticks | Fluted Taper Candles Four ingredients, seasoned […]
Growing up in Idaho, I think I had a pair of gloves in every single coat pocket. And while the weather is not quite as *extreme* in North Carolina, I'm finding myself reaching for gloves more and more as the weather gets colder. However, now I need gloves that not only keep my hands warm […]
There’s no place like home for the Holidays, and there’s no quicker way to make your home feel ready for the season than with fragrance. To me, a home can be clean, tidy, and decorated, but the finishing (and sometimes forgotten) touch is how it smells. Isn’t it incredible that certain scents can trigger a […]
As someone who owns a JBL Boombox 3, I often get asked if it's truly worth the investment. Spoiler alert: it absolutely is. But this question sent me on a path to find other comparable Bluetooth speakers that could fit different budgets and needs. With the holiday season upon us, what better gift than a […]
We're big hot chocolate fans here. My kids want it every morning, and it's one of my favorites as well. Unfortunately, it's basically just dairy and sugar and a great way to start the day if your ideal day starts with a stomachache. Mugs | Crockpot | Ladle With the dairy allergies in our home, […]
Another month, another recap! We kicked off November with the launch of our 2023 Holiday Gift Guides, which was such a lift but also so fun to put together for all of your holiday gifting needs. We also put together our Holiday Shoppe page as a resource for holiday decor, from trees and garlands to […]
I love a grazing party. Good conversation, good music, maybe some games, and a spread of food I can return to again and again whenever I need a little bite. Dairy-free party appetizers are harder to come by, because of course we all love cheese. But this little number is bursting with flavor, comes together […]
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Welcome to our online community where we've posted home, DIY, style, renovations, and family since '09. Renovating our #cljmoderncottage in Idaho and headed for new adventures in Raleigh, NC. #cljfam #cljtransformations