Today I’m bringing you a super short and sweet list of five things I’m loving lately. I used to do favorites posts a while back and they were some of my favorites to write. Do you guys like seeing what I’m into? I am all about connecting with y’all and bringing you guys meaningful content. So, please, let me know what you think! I always appreciate the feedback!
I don’t know why it has taken me so long to start listening but I’m glad I have! This podcast is the bees knees! Co-hosts and real-life couple, Lauryn and Michael are the best balance of hilarity and business savvy. On each episode, they provide insightful anecdotes, entrepreneurial advice, and entertaining guests. Listening to one of their podcast episodes is like sitting down to have a glass of wine with some friends. I love it!
Collagen Peptides
I can’t quite get over how strange I feel to say that I take collagen! It all started back when my stomach was irritating me like crazy after a short antibiotics stint. I already was dealing with sucky digestion and I felt like the lining in my stomach was just not having it. Collagen has a plethora of benefits but I began taking it for the purpose of repairing my stomach lining. It’s super easy for me to throw a scoop in any beverage, soup, breakfast entree, or a smoothie!
I take it daily and, after a few weeks, was able to notice a difference. Additionally, I am very satisfied with the two brands I’ve tried: Primal Kitchen Unflavored Collagen Peptides and Vital Proteins Unflavored Collagen Peptides. I’m working on a tub of the latter right now. It is a supplement though so I might take a break afterwards just to see how my body feels without.
Master of None
Do you ever finish a show and then wonder what you’re going to do with your life now? I am feeling serious Master of None withdrawals, guys! This show is LIFE. I know that sounds dramatic but it perfectly depicts the phenomenon that is the trials and tribulations of modern society through dating and relationships. If you are like me and thought Aziz Ansari was the most annoying little sidekick in Parks and Recreation…high five. Though, don’t let that stop you from watching his Netflix show. I think this might be my favorite show ever and I’m semi-convinced it could be yours, too.
If you are like me and live outside of a major city, it can be hard to find specialty projects. What are the chances of finding dairy-free, soy-free, sugar-free yogurt in stores? Ha, yeah right! <– Is what I would have said a month and a half ago before my local Vons started carrying such a product. I’m so appreciative of a brand like Forager Project for making quality plant-based products. Their plain yogurt is my new favorite base for smoothies, parfaits, yogurt bowls, and as a pancake topping! It also works well in recipes like any other yogurt would!
Have you ever read about the gross chemicals that are used in mascara? In actuality, I don’t experience eye sensitivities but, as I read more about what goes into products, it makes it hard for me to use ones that have questionable ingredients. I’m the pickiest person with mascaras but the Blackest Black shade from Pixie is my go-to. The large fluffy brush makes it easy to thoroughly coat lashes. It adds volume without weighing them down. Yeah, that’s right. No soggy, limp lashes over here! Pixie uses ingredients with a reputable safety record and no animal testing occurs on their part or their suppliers! Sounds good to me 🙂
Was this quick and brief? I’m so proud of myself for not writing an essay! Lol. Definitely let me know what you think of these sorts of posts here or on Instagram! Also, I’d love to hear what you love lately. Let’s connect!
Hello beautiful souls! I’ve missed you! The whole two jobs, no spare time thing has really put a damper on social time. In case you didn’t know, I got hired for a seasonal job back in October and, not long after, was offered a full time job elsewhere. I’ve been juggling the two at the sacrifice of social media, my loving blog, and communication with anyone who isn’t a coworker or family living in my house. As the month soon comes to a close, I foresee some more time for me to get back to all of that!
For now, I’ve got a list of things I’ve loved over the past few months. My last monthly favorites post was back in September and much has happened since then! I can’t commit to a monthly favorites post at this time but I’ve got a huge list of goodies to keep you occupied. Be sure to tell me what you’re loving in the comments down below or on Instagram!
Visual Favorites
Hallmark Channel
As far as TV goes, Hallmark Channel is where I’m at! Hallmark Channel is putting out 20 new movies this holiday season. While it is almost over, you can find a holiday movie airing at any hour of the day on the channel—along with its partner channel Hallmark Movies and Mysteries. The cozy, sweet, and romantic movies are all I need to make my December feel like Christmastime. A few film favorites are: Marry Me at Christmas, Miss Christmas, and Christmas in Angel Falls.
73 Questions with ______
Recently, I went on a video binge over on the Vogue YouTube channel. They have a series called 73 Questions with different celebrities. It is such a fun, laid-back way of asking questions that tell you a lot of interesting things about the person in a short amount of time. See my woman crush Emma Stone’s 73 Questions video here!
I was on a big lemon/ apple cider vinegar warm water kick and now tea is my morning cup of choice. This one legit smells like hot chocolate but the depth of flavor is unlike any other tea I’ve tried. Once before, I had a plain mushroom tea that tasted like bitter broth but I guarantee Reishi Detox is yummy even for mushroom haters.
B-Complex Vitamin
As you may have heard, supplements can’t fix a bad diet. Supplements are only meant to assist in health not be the sole solution. I eat pretty healthy (hello, have you seen my Instagram photos?) but, with the addition of B vitamins, I have seen noticeable effects. I’ve tried taking a B12 vitamin but I really find that the B complex is the best. If you take too much of one, you might be lacking in the others so a complex ensures you’re getting all the vitamins you need. I was taking Nature Made B Complex plus a B6 vitamin until I found this Solgar brand at Vitamin Shoppe. Both work but the variety of B vitamin levels in the Solgar one allow me to meet my needs in one bottle!
Protes Chips
I’m making efforts to not be a carb monster so protein-filled snacks are a great addition to my meals! So, I’m definitely not a chips person or a crunchy food person usually but these are different. The Protes chips are light and crispy and quite flavorful! The bags are small but satisfying—and the savory and dessert flavors are both delicious!
Recipes I’m Loving
Garlic Sweet Potato Fries
Behold: the yummiest recipe for CRISPY Sweet Potato Fries at home! Dare I say they’re better than the fried kind at restaurants :p
Black Bean Salad with Roasted Sweet Potatoes
I made this dish for a staff after-hours party and I received multiple complements! The zesty, tex-mex dish is perfect as a standalone meal or side dish! I’ve got some leftovers in my fridge ready to be made into tacos 😉
Coconut Cacao Tahini Snack Bites
I love Minimalist Baker’s take on the “fat ball”. It combines my precious tahini and delicious coconut butter for a melt-away, delicious, and satiating snack. Try them and swoon!
Paleo Double Chocolate Banana Bread
This recipe uses A LOT of ingredients so it took me a while to get everything I needed to make it. Let me tell ya, it’s worth it! This banana bread tastes like freaking rich, dark chocolate cake without the sugar! It’s naturally sweetened from banana and doesn’t leave me feeling weighed down like if I ate something decadent. It is also delicious with nut butter or decked out as a breakfast meal.
Fit Favorites
I admit I’ve sidetracked from my workouts lately. I felt like the pressure to fit in a workout was getting to be too much. Though, exercise makes me feel good so I’ve still got some options! Lauren Gleisberg’s Fitmas is crazy good for strength training! I love the targeted body part workouts that are usually less than 30 minutes to complete.
The stress at work + the natural stress from workouts had me feeling like I had no moments of calm. So, a yoga flow to start my day sets me up for success! I recently completed Yoga Revolution for the second time and know the upcoming January challenge will be just as amazing!
Audible Favorites
Eisley’s newest album I’m Only Dreaming
The angelic vocal stylings of Sherri Dupree make for a record of wistful, melancholic, dream pop. The band has come a long way since older albums Room Noises and Combinations but maintain the gorgeous ambient tunes that make them unique. Listen to Sparking down below or check out their Christmas single (YAS!) Star on the Tree.
One Part Plant Podcast
I think I’ve mentioned this podcast in a previous favorites video but this latest season of episodes is crazy great. Jessica Murnane really put together a great lineup of guests. If you’d like a recommendation, check out episode 89 with Celeste Headlee!
Real Talk About Life Lately
Honestly, guys, I haven’t felt this level of stress in a while. So much so that my period came a week late this last cycle! Also, for me, the first place stress hits me is my face. My skin is freaking out and breaking out. The winter has also been killing my hands which are competing with the scratchiness of sandpaper. If you’ve got any recommendations for natural or nontoxic lotions, please share. I know my skin will get better if I can just chill out. Easier said than done but I’m trying to find my groove!
The center where I work full-time always keeps me busy. Though, what makes it really enjoyable is the people I work with. I started out being trained by a girl who was leaving (and I was replacing) and we became instant friends! Funny how that happened. I feel so fortunate to have met her because she is such a rare, sweet person!
As well, I’ve become friendly with a few others in the office but there is this one particular guy I work with who is so cool. With my hormonal imbalance issues, I almost thought I lost the ability to actually like someone else the way I like him. He knows a lot around the office and is beyond helpful with showing me reports, how to fix the copy machine, and more. At a recent staff party, (where I made the above mentioned sweet potato dish) him and I chatted nonstop! 🙂
For the first time in a long time, I’m just excited about this time of year and where things may be headed. I’m sending love and warm wishes to you all ♥
This post is coming to you hot! 🔥 So hot that I literally just finished writing this the moment before it went live. Basically, I almost skipped writing an August favorites post until I realized that August has 31 days! Huzzah! That extra day gave me the time I needed to coagulate all of my favorite things from food, entertainment, and more! What have I been so busy with that I couldn’t write my favorites down? I can’t tell you all quite yet! Call me superstitious but I just like to get my ducks in a line before I make any announcements.
Also, I hope to get blog posts back on a regular schedule. I try to put out two a week but content and timing varies. I’ve got ideas for my next few posts but I just need to actually WRITE them. They are coming soon. If you follow me on Instagram, you’ll be sure to get the latest and greatest there first! Anyway, let’s get on with my August Wrap-Up!
What I’ve Been Reading
How to End the Game of Catching Up
I am constantly seeking ways to improve myself. One of the most common thoughts that come to my head is: as soon as I get caught up with this, then I’ll have more time to do what I want. The mistake here is in putting off doing what I want in favor of things that are always going to be there. “How to End the Endless Game of Catching Up” over on Be More With Less describes exactly that.
Apparently, I’m a Highly Sensitive Person.
Who knew? Okay, I kind of always had a feeling growing up that I was extremely sensitive. I’m sensitive to a sales associate at a clothing store asking me if I need help the way others seem to be sensitive about the Game of Thrones halfway season finale. Both are startling (so I hear. I don’t watch GOT) but I will elicit a strong reaction to even the most miniscule of circumstances. So, I try to stay away from labels but I can’t help but relate and feel less alone when reading articles that seem to describe my life. I might cry over spilled milk but knowing there are other HSPs out there doing the same thing is comforting. Oh, and there’s a quiz here if you’re wondering if you could also be highly sensitive.
A Positive Spin on Bad Habits
On a funnier note, I often refer back to this Man Repeller post just to make me feel like less of a screw-up. I mean, I may be incapable of making a decision about ANYTHING but that makes me open-minded to possibilities and I can live with that. Sort of. What’s your bad trait?
Movie and TV Favorites
Atomic Blonde
I am a sucker for a female-led film and this one delivers. Charlize Theron plays a spy on a mission to recover a list of names during 1980s Germany, at a time when there is much instability surrounding the Berlin Wall. It’s spy against spy in this thriller/action film because it is hard to know who can be trusted. The dark and punk setting adds much to the overall vibe and theatrics of the film which leads like a wicked graphic novel as it switches from scene to scene. Plus, Theron can throw and take some serious sucker punches all while strutting around in uber-cool outfits. There is no other way to describe Atomic Blonde except: badass. As a disclaimer, the film isn’t very kid-friendly due to sex, language, and violence.
Orphan Black
On the smaller screen, I’ve recently started watching the series Orphan Black thanks to my Direct TV On Demand. (We recently switched satellite providers and I’ve finally got access to On Demand! Yay!) It is about a young woman who is trying to clean up her act to regain custody of her daughter but instead figures out that there’s a whole lot more to her origins. She engages in some duplicitous behavior and discovers she is one of many clones that look exactly like she does. It’s got drama, suspense, a super-cute gay friend that I wish was mine, and a story line that keeps twisting and turning. It’s Canadian entertainment at its finest. Earlier this year the show wrapped but I’m just getting around to seeing it and I’m hooked! Also, I’m only on season 2 right now so, please, keep the spoilers to yourself.
Food Favorites
Cookie and Kate’s Cookbook + White Bean Pesto (Dip)
You guys know I’m obsessed with the Cookie and Kate Love Real Food Cookbook. If you don’t, you must be new here. Hey, happy to have you here, new friends! 👋 Anyway, I’ve been cooking up different things from the cookbook like the Colorful Weeknight Burrito Bowls and Chickpea Tikka Masala with Green Rice. The recipes are so substitute-friendly for allergies, vegetarian/vegan, and, most-importantly, they are all majorly delicious!
Plus, I tested out a wicked White Bean Pesto from the Crostini recipe in her cookbook and OMG, it is SO GOOD. Honestly, I like dips but most of them just make me want to eat pita chips or crackers. The white bean pesto spread actually works as a delicious dip for veggies! As you can see, I was so hooked on these roasted veggie bowls with white bean pesto dip.
Half Baked Harvest’s Mean Green Detox Salad
I try to cycle sync my food but powerhouse ingredients found in this salad, like kale, broccoli, chickpeas, and avocado, are good anytime! Y’all know I don’t often repeat meals but I can tell you I’ve been very hooked on this one! I’ve switched up the fruit, too, and you can’t go wrong! Oh, and you’ll want to double the lemon tahini dressing because it’s so freaking tasty!
I’ve yet to post the recipe for this one. Is it mean of me to include it in my favorites? If so, I’m sorry for being a tease but, the recipe is coming soon! I’ve been trying to creatively pair WomanCode approved foods for my cycle and this smoothie is loaded with multiple luteal phase appropriate goods. Stay tuned!
What I’m Listening To
The Balanced Blonde’s Soul on Fire Podcast
Have you ever spoken to someone and they mention feelings or ideas that you have but you’ve never said out loud? That’s how I feel listening to the Soul on Fire Podcast. Jordan and her guests have all been through some miraculous and difficult experiences on their route to finding their passions. I truly find inspiration in each episode and that just motivates me more to find my path. I’ve been mentioning how I want to change some things in my life and this podcast is honestly a big part of that reason. I’ve been flip-flopping around through episodes but some of my favorites so far are the episodes with: Jonathan Albrecht, Jeannette Ogden, and Emma Mildon.
Jessica Murnane’s One Part Podcast
I had heard of Jessica Murnane when she released her cookbook but it wasn’t until I listened to her episode on The Balanced Blonde’s Podcast that I decided to check her out. Jessica’s One Part Podcast is similar to Soul on Fire but more concentrated on specific topics with each guest. I’d say OPP is educational but not in a boring way! Here are some episodes I’ve found fascinating so far: The Hidden Dangers in Healthy Food and Doing Your Dharma.
Magical Moment of August
I’m going to be a bit vague here for the sake of privacy. A friend of mine has been going through some wild things the past few years. He tried any drug he could get his hands on and abused all the substances, most notably alcohol. Of course, he was as vibrant and as could be when he would talk to me because he did not want to let on how much of a mess he felt like. I could see what he was doing to himself but we’re all adults here so you can’t force anyone to change their ways. They have to want that for themselves. Finally, he did.
I was talking to him on the phone just recently and he had a different zest about him. Over the years, he has left out key details about his life. In fact, he almost wasn’t going to tell me what had happened to lead up to his present, newfound passion for life. He said it was bad and he tries to just tell me the good things. That really struck me and, frustrated, I said:
You can’t just tell me about the good things that happen to you. Everyone has good and bad experiences that happen to them but you can’t learn from them if you’re only hearing the good part.
You know, or something like that. It made me think about how on social media is largely comprised of accomplishments, flattering pictures, and best case scenarios. Why? Well, people (myself included) like to share the GOOD things. That’s understandable but, if you ever have the chance, asks someone how they got to where they are. I bet you’ll find out the “bad” or less glamorous experiences that make up their story are a hell of a lot more worthwhile.
If you’re a regular reader, you may notice that my monthly wrap-up posts change depending on what favorites I have. Like, for August, there are no product favorites! What? I know. I’ve kind of been a shut-in this past month because summertime is like the equivalent of walking into an oven broiler where I live. No joke. That’s why I’ve been busting out so many smoothie recipes—‘cause that is all I want to eat! Anyway, I hope to have good news (and stories to go with them) to share with you all soon.
It’s that time again! Monthly favorites are probably one of my favorite posts to write. Is that fair? Can I include my monthly favorites as a favorite? Well, regardless, it is a great way for me to talk about what I like and what I’ve been working on during the month. The dress that I’m wearing in the the above photo is one project that I tackled this month. It is my first big sewing project and I’m so happy with how it turned out. I’m not ready to instruct a course on how to sew but there are a couple of things I’m excited to tell you about. Keep reading to find out.
Food Favorites
Can’t Stop Won’t Stop with Pumpkin
I am either really eager for fall or plain in love with pumpkin. Maybe both. I enjoyed pumpkin in sweet and savory recipes: pumpkin pasta, pumpkin smoothies, pumpkin cinnamon date muffins! The pasta is something I definitely want to turn into a blog recipe because it was so good! As for the others, I followed the Tone it Up recipes for the pumpkin smoothie, using frozen pumpkin ice cubes instead off soft puree. Additionally, pumpkin is my favorite puree to sub in the Cinnamon Date Muffins. I got the recipe from the TIU Nutrition Plan but I used 2/3 cup pumpkin puree in place of bananas in the recipe. I enjoyed the muffins on their own and also included them in bowls with coconut chia ice cream.
Mango Carrot Tumeric Smoothie
I like to keep my smoothies low in sugar so where does that leave mango? Mango needed another partner besides banana and then this delicious little gem happened! Plus, the smoothie lets me take advantage of turmeric in alternative ways besides Indian-inspired dishes. I posted the recipe on Instagram over here. Sometime, hopefully soon, I’ll try to get around to making my go-to smoothies permanent posts on the blog—that way they are easy to find and easy to access.
Chocolate in all its forms
My chocolate cravings usually stay tame thanks to smoothies. Other times, I’ll eat a squarebar. Though, I got creative in the kitchen to make these Creamy Peanut Butter Chocolate Crisp Bars. They’re no-bake and what I’d consider to be a “clean” treat. The recipe ingredients may seem rich but, fear not, because one small slice is so satisfying! Just looking at the photo of the bars reminds me that I need to remake them!
The Notable Moment of the Month
For my mom’s birthday, my family went out to eat for brunch. I usually hate eating out because food options are limited and my family doesn’t eat meals punctually. For the occasion, I rolled with it. As I spent more time out and about with my family, my lunch ended up being a protein bar. Then, my afternoon snack was a slice of the German Chocolate Cake I made my mom.
Sidenote: I used a super easy recipe from the Love Real Food Cookbook and topped it with the suggested date frosting. My healthified baked goods don’t often please my family but my mom enjoyed the homemade cake! She said that it tasted rich enough where a small piece was satisfying. I can admit that it was delicious but it’s definitely more of a treat than I typically desire. Unfortunately, a few hours after eating a slice, my blood sugar felt out of whack.
My eating schedule that day was messy to say the least. Plus, I was relying on sugar and little substance to ride me through the day. Here’s what I observed: 1) my body notices when I’m not eating enough food and when I’m not feeding it with nourishing food. It freaked out by giving me brain fog and a sugar rush headache. Additionally, 2) sweets are just too sweet for me. The cake, while yummy, would have tasted good with a drizzle of peanut butter on top instead of the date frosting. I’ve trained my taste buds to crave fats over sweets and some fat is what I personally missed in the cake.
It is part of life to enjoy different food and I’m okay with the occasional treat. It also serves to reinforce how strongly I believe in the way I eat. I follow a combination of the TIU Nutrition Plan, with FLO Living guidelines, and make that work for me. I am comfortable to veer off the rail road tracks once in a while. Though, for the most part, I’m satisfied with choosing healthy options. Healthy food is what makes me feel good.
What I Read
Always and Forever Lara Jean
In To All the Boys I Loved Before by Jenny Han, Lara Jean’s private handwritten letters to the boys she has crushed on are mailed to the boys’ homes. Readers followed Lara Jean in the subsequent novels as she juggles between Peter and other crushes. Now, in Always and Forever, Lara Jean, is graduating high school and wants to find a way to make things work with the boy she loves and the future she envisions for herself. The concept may sound a bit juvenile but, in YA novels, there is a lot of beauty to explore in first loves and relationships. They are my guilty pleasure and, just like the first two books in the series, this one delivers. I was really satisfied with the way things wrapped. Han keeps the spirit of young love bright and vibrant but also realistic and true.
The presence of phytoestrogens in plant-based foods
As I’ve tried to follow the recommendations for cycle-syncing for my hormones, it is important that I’m eating food that will support my cyclical phases. Alisa Vitti’s WomanCode outlines everything quite well but she suggests avoiding soy due to the phytoestrogens. Thus, I found this article listing some common foods high in phytoestrogens. I’m not kicking out any foods from but rather choosing to incorporate them at the best times for my hormones. Check out the article on 50 Foods High in Estrogen here.
Update on Cycle-Syncing
I notice that the more and more I’m looking into ideas for meals for each of my four cycle phases, the more I crave what WomanCode recommends. The same goes for the lifestyle habits and exercise suggestions. The book provides guidance that seems to align with my energy levels and what my body wants. I feel increasingly in tune with what my body is capable of. I know when to push it and when to ease off. If this is your first time here then check out my Healthy Lifestyle: Is it Worth It? post to read a little more on cycle-syncing and WomanCode. Also, I worked really hard on putting together comprehensive A Day of FLO Living posts so read up on the different phases here: Follicular, Ovulatory, Luteal, and Menstrual.
Products I Love
Progessence Essential Oil Blend
A cousin-in-law of mine sells Young Living Essential Oils. A few months ago I started using the Progessence blend, per her recommendation. Quickly, I felt a difference in my mood and thoughts. My hormones are pretty out of whack but they were worse before. I constantly had mood swings and got easily frustrated. This is a big part of the reason why my hormones are at a decent place right now. I use it twice, daily, and I can’t go without it!
Shea Butter
I recently finished up the miscellaneous lotion bottles I had in my stash of body care. I look for products with short, recognizable lists of ingredients. The Shea Moisture Shea Butter is exactly that. I’ve been using it as a moisturizer on my legs, elbows, feet, and lips! It’s 100% raw shea butter and it is a product I can feel safe about using—plus it’s a great light moisturizer.
What I’m Listening To
In Undertow by Alvvays
Have you heard of Alvvays? A friend of mine introduced me to their hit song “Archie, Marry Me” a few years back and I was instantly hooked. I repeatedly listened to their self-titled debut album for months but I’m stoked to see that they are releasing a new album this September! In Undertow is one of two singles off their upcoming album. It’s dreamy, it’s electric, it’s poetic, and everything I loved about their first album—revamped!
Bombay Bicycle Club by Shuffle
This song is MY JAM. I’m constantly (re)discovering old songs and this one has been on replay throughout the month. Oddly enough, I think the song is about a relationship that is irreparably messed up. Okay, maybe not the happiest situation but the lively beat and cascading vocals make it such a joy to listen to! Let me know what you think if you check it out.
Thanks so much for taking an interest in my monthly favorites! I love putting these posts together and I hope to hear back from you what your favorites from the month of July are. xoxo
The official start of summer wasn’t until June 21st but I’ve been living it up in the blazin’ hundred degree weather since the start of the month. The hot weather leads me to have simple days of chill tea dates with friends or just spend a bit more time indoors, discovering new favorites 😉 I’m really excited to share what I loved in books, TV, food, music, and more this month so, if you’re interested, keep reading!
What I’ve Been Reading
WomanCode by Alisa Vitti
Women who have period, fertility, or libido issues are the ones who can most benefit from WomanCode. Though, those problems may exist without you being fully aware. A while back, I heard about the book from Lee from America and hoped it could help with my personal health concerns. The self-help book illuminates the areas in which lifestyle factors may be working against naturally-fluctuating hormone levels. I touched on how reading the book pertains to my health and fitness journey but this won’t be the last I talk about it. I feel positively influenced by the WomanCode Protocol so I hope to share equally positive results regarding my cycle and hormone regulation in coming months. I’m also planning to follow this up in the future with blog posts about how I’m incorporating the recommendations in the book to perfect my cycle.
KP-ingitsimple’s Fit Fuel Series
Over the past year, I’ve become more and more interested in nutrition. I think it’s a natural progression after beginning to prioritize personal health and fitness. I’m avidly seeking out new information about what nutrients are best going to fuel my body and how. Fellow TIU sister and peanut butter lover, Kelly or KP, already shares enlightening health posts on her blog in topics such as water weight and bloating, and now her Fit Fuel Series has me hooked! It addresses exactly that you would want to know as far as how to effectively fuel your body for workouts. The sort of information she provides can be hard to find online so I find it to be such a great resource!
Favorite Eats
Pumpkin Cookies
Pumpkin knows no single season at my house. It screams fall but it also makes the perfect batter for baked treats all year long. I am pretty proud of myself for baking up a super-tasty and lightly-sweetened cookie with good-for-you ingredients like rolled oats, pumpkin, and coconut oil. They are even versatile enough that you can add a scoop or your favorite protein powder to them without sacrificing the cookie-taste. See the post and recipe here.
Halfway through the month, I began incorporating WomanCode protocols and eating with my cycle. During my luteal phase, I was all about sautéed greens and hearty veggies. This skillet dish was one of my favorite meals. I loaded up on dark leafy greens, sweet potato, brown rice, onions, and garlic—all rich in vitamins and minerals—to help with fluid retention and progesterone production pre-menstruation phase. The interesting thing about this time of month is how sugar cravings kick up a notch so roasting and sautéing vegetables helps bring out natural sweetness in food. I am so satisfied after meals like this, and don’t feel the desire to reach for a candy bar to satisfy my sweet tooth.
What I’ve Been Watching
(Surprisingly, all of the shows I’ve loved this month are series finales or just short-run programs)
I simply adore Mary Queen of Scots and her consistent motivation to do better for her people. Yet, I’m baffled by the ending of Reign and disappointed with how history unfortunately played out for Mary. Her long, tumultuous battle for a throne and respect as a queen is one worth watching. I won’t spoil it for you if you haven’t seen it but the entire show is on Netflix if you want to catch up with the 16th century queen.
Pretty Little Liars
I know the series finale just happened so I won’t give away any spoilers in case you have yet to catch up. Admittedly, the show dragged out the A/AD storyline far too long but I’m glad I didn’t give up on it. Freeform aired the second part of the final season which over the past two months and I’ve been hooked. Friendships and relationships were tested but we also got a taste for possible AD suspects up til the finale episode. I seriously didn’t see the ending coming!
This one is an HBO exclusive starring boss babes: Reese Witherspoon, Nicole Kidman, and Shailene Woodley. Upon moving to Monterey, Woodley’s character and her son become targets in a finger-pointing scandal. It starts in the children’s elementary school but the parents quickly make it a personal with one another. The show skips back and forth between present investigations about a murder and the past events leading up to it. Viewers watch the past events unfold to get to know the main suspects and piece together who among them gets murdered. It showcases an interesting look at how there is so much more happening in each person’s life than the face that they put forth to others. Also, unlike the next show I’m about to mention, Big Little Lies has a bittersweet but satisfying end.
GirlBoss
Last TV show, I promise! The story of NastyGal founder Sophia Amoruso is one you won’t exactly want to cheer for but it is awe-inspiring. Britt Robertson, who I love from Life Unexpected and The Secret Circle, plays Amoruso with a wild steadfast drive and independence. The NastyGal founder isn’t the most admirable female role model, especially when you see what she had to do to get her business started. Still, I couldn’t help but have hope for the anti-hero. Unfortunately, Netflix probably didn’t want to pursue the series since real-life Amoruso filed for bankruptcy last year, so one season is all GirlBoss is getting.
What I’ve Been Listening To
Paramore’s After Laughter
Long after punk-rock and teen angst phase has passed, Paramore is still relevant! I’ve been growing up with their music over the past few years and their latest release, After Laughter, is no different. It’s expressive of struggles of changes with life and growing up but with a new fresh sound. Expect groovy, pop-y tunes, and Hayley Williams’ soaring, fiery vocals. Some favorites from the album include songs like Fake Happy, Told You So, and Grudges:
Product Favorites
Coconut oil
Coconut oil is under controversy recently but, like all oils, it should be used in moderation. I’m not needlessly swallowing down coconut oil in coffee drinks but the unrefined variety is my go-to choice for baking (see below). A little bit of this oil adds decadence that only butter may come close to providing. Though, the jury is still out on health benefits of coconut oil, I’m keeping the unrefined, virgin, expeller-pressed variety around in my kitchen. I like Spectrum and Nutiva.
Avocado Oil
Two favorite oils, Melanie? Yes! I’m not deep-frying up a storm over at my house but oil is still important to have on hand. I have a collection of quality cooking oils that I use for different purposes. Avocado oil is perfect for roasting veggies or pan-frying. Its high heat temperature won’t smoke on the stovetop like extra virgin olive oil or other vegetable oils. Plus, I notice it imparts a slight richness to food without messing with the flavor of your dish. I’ve tried Chosen Foods and Primal Kitchen. Both are great!
pHresh Deodorant Cream
I’d been searching for a natural deodorant that is not only aluminum-free but organic. As I mentioned above, I’m making adjustments to my lifestyle to help out my hormones. A step towards doing that involves ridding my environment of toxic chemicals that may be endocrine disruptors. Our armpits are such a sensitive area and an important one for excreting toxins (which happens when you sweat). I do need to apply the cream 1-2 times a day but, for a softening and protective cream deodorant like pHresh, it is worth it! I’m not smothering my sweat glands with antiperspirant anymore, plus, my armpits have never been softer! The Deodorant Cream deserves to be amongst my monthly favorites and you can read more about how I use it in my Shower Routine and Essentials post.
Bite Beauty Agave Lip Mask
This lip product was all the rage a few years back but it never struck me as a big deal. I had all but abandoned my Bite Beauty lip mask until I pulled it out again in the springtime. I’ve been using it ever since as my nighttime lip protectant. It is thick and made with food-grade quality ingredients. It is something I feel safe to put around my mouth and the moisturization benefits last for hours!
Notable moments of the month
Friends from Instagram will remember that my pet rabbit, Twix, was always at the top of my favorites list. So, I want to touch on what exactly happened to lead to this moment. He had been slowly losing weight since April but we figured it was because of his age. His hind legs were also giving out a bit more. He no longer was able to hop onto our couch like he used to and he would slip when walking. The signs pointed to age.
Though, in the month of June he got dramatically skinny almost overnight. Twix wasn’t eating his food or hopping around like he used. Or even going to the bathroom in his potty dish. If you knew Twix, you’d know that’s a big deal because he was particular about his preferred “peeing spots”. Unfortunately, his condition just escalated so quickly.
Even if I fed him all the veggies and leafy greens, those were not going to be enough to put weight on him. He felt frail and I think he himself noticed that his body wasn’t cooperating with him anymore. It pained my family and I to watch our furry baby’s deterioration so we had to say goodbye to him after nearly 6 years. I miss him every day but love is not limited to life or death. I’ll always care very much about Twix and treasure the memories I have with him.
On another note, an old friend from school was here for the month in between graduation and the start of his doctorate program. It was so fun to reconnect and hang out multiple times this month. Nothing beats having a good catch-up and enjoying fun activities with friends.
Thank you for taking an interest in my favorites from the month of June!
I only share products that I’ve been using for a while and can vouch for their effectiveness. As for other favorites, like TV shows and interesting reads, those are ever-rotating. Have you encountered some favorites in the past month? If so, definitely drop me a line and tell me what they are! I love hearing you guys’ ideas and suggestions.
This month has been a long one but a slow one. I know that is quite the contradiction but maybe that is just life in general: long and slow. Ooh look at me being all thoughtful. 😄 Anyway, I thought I’d just whip up a post going over some favorites as far as things I tried and notable moments for me in this month of May.
First up, FOOD. I received a package of some new product releases for 2017 at the end of April and have been slowly making my way through them. I’ve had the pleasure of trying some really inventive foods but here are a few standouts:
bRAW bars
Healthy bars can be hard to find so when I checked out the ingredients label on the bRAW bars, I was blown away. They are plant-based superfood bars filled with nuts, seeds, and gems like cacao nibs and gogi berries. They are soft, yet crispy from the texture of all of the goods inside them. These bars do need to be stored in the refrigerator but I found they were fine to carry with me in my bag if I consumed them within a few hours. Their store availability is limited but, fortunately, they are available online from their website.
Rolling Greens Millet Tots
The brand Rolling Greens has put a creative, healthy spin on the classic tater tot without sacrificing the texture and flavor that I grew up loving in traditional tots. Instead of white potatoes, the tots are made from the ancient grain millet. So far I’ve tried the Poblano Chili and Sweet Potato flavor, along with the Garlic and Basil flavor. There is also a plain sea salt one but I was too excited about these two flavors so I haven’t touched the plain yet. I’m sure it is as great as the two I’ve tried! You can check out their gluten-free, soy-free, and vegan-friendly tots here. The Rolling Mills millet tots come frozen and are ready to eat after just 15 minutes in the oven! They make a fun addition to salads, roasted veggies, homemade hamburgers, or simply as a snack/appetizer with some zesty dip.
And I’ve got a couple of non-food favorites…
Love Real Food Cookbook
After over a year of reading Kate from Cookie and Kate talk about writing, revising, and developing recipes for her cookbook, Love Real Food, the pre-order finally happened in January. These past few months of waiting were brutal but, now that it is in my hands, I love it! The book perfectly captures the simplicity of her blog and the clean, plant-centered cooking method I love. I predict each of the recipes will become favorites of mine because all of the dishes look so good! It’s not a cookbook just for vegetarians either–there is much to enjoy even for omnivores, gluten-free eaters, and vegans alike 😉
Follow me on Instagram to see what I cook up from Love Real Food and find more details about the book here.
Unfiltered: No Shame, No Regrets, Just Me by Lily Collins
Another book I’ve been into this month has been Lily Collins’ new release. Earlier this week I published a blog post on my thoughts about the book so I won’t overdo it with the review–see my post for that. I just love that each chapter has a positive and inspirational message. I did not relate to each one but many of the messages did touch me on a personal level.
TV favorites: Riverdale
This is the show I didn’t know I was missing! The neat thing about this CW show is that the characters are based on Archie Comics characters. Though, you don’t need to have read the comics to understand the show. The first season’s plot circles around a crime committed during the summer before the teens’ sophomore year of high school. The Archie gang is hot on the case trying to figure out who did it but anyone in town can be a suspect. At the same time, the tangled web of romantic relationships between the Archie gang and the Riverdale adults keeps viewers on their toes. The show was just added to Netflix so catch up over there!
Yoga for Days
I’ve been practicing yoga on a daily basis for around 6 months now. Majority of the time I start my day with a video from Yoga with Adriene but occasionally I’ll practice in the evening, try another yogi’s video, or simply do my own thing. There’s lots of wiggle room for when, where, and how you can practice yoga. Notice the keyword: practice. I’ve long let go of the idea that I need to “do” yoga and instead I let my body be. That has allowed me to slowly build up to bakasana, or crow pose.
This was a really hard one for me back in December when I first started practicing. It has been my favorite to practice because it is so challenging! I couldn’t even lift a toe off the ground and now I can actually balance. My form is definitely not perfect but I’m proud of how far I’ve come. This little victory makes me really appreciate what my body can do.
Moment of Reflection
I spent the past few months feeling like I was in some kind of rush to get the right job, push my body to look a certain way, and overall be at a place I’m just not at yet. I’m not giving up on anything but I think the more I focus on what I don’t have, the more stressed I feel. And I don’t need that. Instead, I’m working on being present and taking care of myself right now. I quickly get caught up in a plan that I have/want for myself in the future but I don’t want to sacrifice enjoying the now to get there.
What have you guys been up to this month? Have you discovered some new favorites? Made any realizations? Heck, even if you just ship Bughead from Riverdale (no, especially if you ship Bughead) then I want to hear from you. Drop me some comments down below and I hope we can all leap into a happy month of June!
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