Baby, massage, hummus

I am still constantly amazed that Elliot is like a real live baby now! My little infant is gone. He no longer just lays there. He always wants to play & move & grab things now. It's just crazy! This past week he has pretty much mastered sitting up. He loves to reach out to grab his toys, which sometimes includes face-planting, which he seems to find entertaining. He's going to be a mobile little guy once he figures out crawling!! He isn't a big fan of bending his legs, so I don't think crawling will happen anytime soon... of course, he changes week to week so I could be completely wrong! It's so fun to see him growing. It is a challenge on some days, especially when he's a little fussy (teething, I think) or won't nap or wants to be entertained (by me) all day. It's tiring! But so fun, & I wouldn't have it any other way.

That being said, I am cashing in Thursday on the gift certificate my parents gave me for a massage, & I am SO EXCITED. Oh man. My back has been hurting pretty bad the past month or two, so I know it will help, not to mention the relaxation factor & spa experience. Oh how I love going to the spa. It doesn't happen often, so it is indeed a treat that I REALLY enjoy!!

I made a black bean hummus last week that I must share with you. I got the recipe from Jenny Rigney, & it is DELISH! I am motivated to make different kinds of hummus. I'll have to experiment soon when I have some free time.

Here it is:

Black Bean Hummus

1 Garlic Clove
1 15 Oz Can Black Beans, rinsed and drained
3 Tbsp Olive Oil
2 Tbsp Water
Juice of 1/2 a Lemon
1/2 Tsp Cumin
1/4 Tsp Salt (we use kosher)
1/4 Cup Cilantro, chopped

1. Place garlic clove in a food processor and pulse for 1 minute.
2. Add the remaining ingredients and puree in food processor until smooth.
3. Serve with toasted pita bread, tortilla chips, or fresh veggies.

I didn't add the lemon juice because I didn't have any, & I didn't add cilantro because it makes me want to barf. I loved it with black corn chips & with Sun Chips.

Enjoy!