Portugal Mornings, Thoughts on Family, and an Easy Lemon-and-Artichoke Pasta
The first cool mornings have arrived here. Skies are clear and bright, the light taking on that fallish glow as it reflects off the hillside. Terra cotta rooftops and houses painted in pale green, pink, and yellow make for a view I wake up to with such gratitude. It feels like a welcome, refreshing change.
Portugal has been good for us, relaxing and grounding. We recently celebrated my husband’s birthday, and with my own milestone approaching in just a couple of months, we’ve been reflecting together on what truly matters and what we want for the years ahead. Again and again, it circles back to family.
With children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and parents scattered across so many locations, we often ask ourselves: how do we spend time in ways that nourish everyone, while still finding balance for ourselves?
For us, it comes down to two things: prioritizing family time over energy-draining commitments that aren’t truly necessary, and carving out space to recharge our own batteries.
Family time means checking in regularly, through video calls, or in person when possible, and making that time meaningful. Sometimes it’s sharing a memorable activity, other times it’s simply sitting together, connecting over conversation or around a table with a meal.
And that ever-elusive self-care? For me, the essentials are simple: meditation, eating well, exercise, a walk in nature, coffee with a friend, laughter, and good sleep (always a challenge for me).
Lately, I’ve been leaning into one-pot meals for the sake of efficiency and flavor. Dishes like soups, paellas, and pastas, such as the one I’m sharing here. They bring ease to the kitchen while still putting a nourishing, satisfying meal on the table.
Featured Recipe
Lemon and Artichoke Fettuccine
A bright and creamy one-pot pasta layered with lemon zest, artichokes, capers, and fresh herbs. Ready in under 30 minutes with gluten-free and vegan options. It’s a dish that feels both rustic and elegant.
From the Archives
Recipes worth revisiting:
Spicy Peanut Noodles – Creamy, spicy, and full of crunch. Equally good warm or chilled.
Fresh Peach Tea Cake – Light and tender, with juicy peaches baked into every bite. Perfect with your afternoon tea.
Wellness Corner 🌿
Nourishment is more than what’s on our plates. It’s also the practices that bring ease and kindness into daily life. This week, explore a gentle Loving-Kindness Meditation. It’s a simple way to cultivate compassion for yourself and for others. Something I think we could all use a little more of.
Thank You
Thanks for being here. I’m so grateful to have you along.
Explore more at anourishedlife.net →
Follow on Instagram: A Nourished Life by Eva Marie
Follow on Facebook: A Nourished Life by Eva Marie
Warmly,
Eva