*These Sweet & Tart Caramelized Brussels Sprouts are the most delicious and decadent side dish you could imagine. Tart balsamic vinegar, sweet maple syrup, and plenty of bacon take the savory veggies to another level.*

I was feeling a little off for most of last week. Like I just couldn’t get a handle on all the little details of life. I skipped the gym one evening, and then felt behind on my workouts all week. I wanted to wash my hair and blow dry it all nice on Wednesday night, but then the World Series was on and it was game seven and there were extra innings and a game delay and I just didn’t get around to it. So this and that and this and that… I’m sure you know what I mean.

What really took me over the edge was an enormous pile of boxes and bags and other recyclables sitting square in the middle of my bedroom for at least a week. Yes, taking up ninety percent of my spare floor space. Yes, for a week. I’d been meaning to break them down and get them into the recycling, but it hadn’t happened. Finally, on Thursday morning, I just had it. I knew that if I kept telling myself I’d take care of it when I got home from work, it would never get done. So, right around the time I usually leave for work, I just buckled down and did it. I ripped and folded and stacked and straightened until I had a perfect little mountain of cardboard to whisk down to the recycling bin. And suddenly, I could see my floor again. So I arrived at the office about twenty minutes later than normal – luckily, I don’t think anyone even noticed. Not only did I have a pep in my step all day, but coming home to a nice, clutter-free room was pretty much the best. From now on, I vow to let myself take care of what needs to be taken care of. Even if it makes me slightly late to the rest of my day, and especially if it gives me a better handle on even some small aspect of my life.

These sweet and tart caramelized brussels sprouts are another thing I’ve been meaning to get to for a while. A very, very delicious little thing. But I hadn’t made them, because they weren’t in my plan for the blog this month and I felt like there were so many other things I should be cooking instead. But eventually I just said screw it, I’m making the sprouts! And I’m so glad I did. These caramelized brussels sprouts are super rich from plenty of bacon (literally, the best). Balsamic vinegar and a sprinkle of dried cranberries add a tart zing. Can I just tell you how much I love roasted sprouts?! So if you’re feeling a little off, too, maybe try knocking out just one small chore from your to-do list. Or, simply distract yourself with this incredibly delicious dish – I promise you it’ll do the trick. 🙂