It seems like only yesterday when Steve proposed to me. Circa this time last year, a man with sawdust in his hair and band-aids on his fingers came bursting in from his wood shop, knelt down next to me with a wooden ring in the palm of his hand and promptly asked me to marry him. Truth be told, it wasn’t the quintessential “romantic” gesture we’re so accustomed to seeing in the media. Nope…this was 100% unexpected; my hair was in a messy bun, I was wearing the same clothes I wore the day before, and our son has just spit up on me. I was a tad shocked, but only because Steve has a loud baritone voice and my nerves were frayed from lack of sleep thanks to our then 6 month old son. My first thought was “yes”, but the first words out of my mouth were something to the effect of “Oh, so that’s what you’ve been up to for the last three weeks”, said with a smile and slight laugh.
Oh, by the way, I happily said “yes”.
His proposal definitely wasn’t the norm, but it was the most romantic thing I’ve ever experienced; it was real, nothing was staged and we were both just going on with our lives as we do everyday. I was so impressed with his craftsmanship and the fact that he kept it hidden so well. But why would I ever question his long hours in the shop…that’s the norm around here…mostly because I keep adding to his ever expanding project list. Remember those walnut cutting boards? Yeah. Anyway, Steve has spoiled me a few times with diamond jewelry etc., but eventually, he really got to know who I am and understood my minimal nature and what means the most to me. He crafted that ring with all the love in his heart and it means more to me than anything he could have purchased. I’m not a “diamonds are a girl’s best friend” person…and there’s nothing wrong if you are, it’s simply a matter of personal taste.
I remember back when I met Steve, I knew we would be together and start a family (they say you just know…truth there). He is tremendously down to earth, real, kindhearted, a truly generous soul and an extremely talented woodworker. Best of all, he has this terrible slap-stick sense of humour which drives me (and our son) into fits of laughter. Actually, we laughed at the small engagement ring he had to craft for my tiny fingers; maneuvering his big “vice gripper” hands to create it must have been a feat all on it’s own; his callouses well earned from a lifetime of physical work.
And, like any relationship, we have challenges from time to time (parenting can do that to a couple), but I wouldn’t trade any of it..we work to get through challenges together and gain deeper understanding and respect for one another. It’s sometimes hard work, but it is good work.
I love that man…
hope you don’t mind me sharing all this mushy stuff on the blog today… keep reading because there IS a great recipe in here, plus a wonderful giveaway for you.
So, as you can guess, unique wood accessories hold a special place in my heart now. Naturally, I was excited when JORD contacted me to work with them this month to help promote their unique wood watches. Engagement ring aside, I’ve never really been an accessory kind of gal. However, I’ve always loved JORD‘s beautifully sustainable natural wood timepieces and coveted owning a unique watch of my own. Their watches are functional and natural statement pieces, which work well whatever your style may be. I’m certainly no fashion blogger, but I think I know what looks good…so says the girl wearing second day clothes, adorning a messy mom-bun and covered in chocolate…yes, that’s me.
For myself, wood feels romantic, it feels real and it’s wild…like the love we feel in our hearts for those closest to us…ok, maybe that was a bit sappy (pun intended). But seriously, what a lovely gift a JORD watch could be for you or your loved one(s) any time of year or just because. These are quality, hand-crafted timepieces with a variety beautiful men’s watches and women’s watches to choose from. They also offer personalized engraving and free worldwide shipping.
I wear their Reese Series women’s watch in Zebrawood and Emerald, which I absolutely love, however, there are plenty of optional wood varieties and face styles for you to fall in love with. One of the first things I noticed was how light the watch is; Steve noted that Zebrawood is a relatively light wood, which is great for me considering how often I’m working with my hands in the kitchen or typing up my blog posts. I love it and the minimal, natural style suits me perfectly.
As a thank you to my readers, JORD is running an exclusive giveaway contest* where one person will win a $100 gift code towards the purchase of their very own JORD timepiece. Everyone who enters will receive a $25 gift code for their website at the end of the contest, so be sure to enter to receive your $25 code and for a chance to win the $100 gift code. To enter, click the link here and enter your details on the form; share with your friends and family as well.
As it’s getting close to the international day of love, I couldn’t leave you hanging without a sweet and chocolatey delight. Below, I have included the recipe for my vegan dark chocolate truffles- it’s a perfect indulgence for celebrating love, in my humble opinion. We’re not huge into celebrating Valentine ’s day here, but I’ll definitely make any excuse to eat chocolate.
I would like to send a big thank you to JORD for my beautiful timepiece and for working with me to share their special giveaway contest for my readers. As always, all thoughts and opinions are my very own and I’m so happy to share this with you (I really love my new watch). Thank you so much for supporting brands I love that also help make The Simple Green possible.
This Contest in Now Closed.
VEGAN DARK CHOCOLATE TRUFFLES
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup full fat organic coconut milk
- 2 tbsp coconut oil
- 10 ounces of vegan dark chocolate 70-80% cocoa, chopped.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- pinch of sea salt
- 1/3 cup cacoa powder or cocoa powder
Instructions
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In a small saucepan, over medium-low heat, add the coconut milk, coconut oil and vanilla and bring to a light simmer. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate and stir continuously until melted and well incorporated. Stir in the salt.
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Pour the chocolate mixture into a shallow baking dish and place into the fridge until firm (may take several hours depending on the temperature of your fridge). Once the chocolate is set, but still somewhat pliable, scoop out 1 tbsp of the chocolate and roll into a ball between the palm of your hands; set on a parchment lined tray. Continue forming the truffles with the remainder of the chocolate.
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Place the cacao/cocoa powder on a small dish and roll each truffle into the cacao/cocoa until evenly coated; place the coated chocolate back on the lined tray. Once all have been coated, place the tray back into the fridge for 15-20 minutes or until firm.
Recipe Notes
truffles will keep for about 2 weeks in the fridge. Allow them to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before indulging. Low fat coconut milk will not work for this recipe; the chocolate will not firm up properly and your truffles will be soft.
I forgot to mention, JORD has a set of women’s watches appropriately named their “Frankie” series. I think I may need one of those in honour of our girl…for those of you who follow me on Instagram, you’ve likely seen Frankie a few times, but here she is again, looking nice and cozy (or disgruntled, depending on your perspective).
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