August Wrap-Up: Favorites from the Month

August Wrap-Up: Favorites from the Month

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

august favoritesI 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! 

august wrap-up favorites from the month

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.

august wrap-up favorites from the month

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!  

august wrap-up favorites from the month

Sweet Potato and Cinnamon Peach Smoothie

https://www.instagram.com/p/BYdwDxug6s3/?taken-by=melaniemakesithappen

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.

august wrap up favorites from the month

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. 

Have a happy month of September!

July Wrap Up—Favorites from the Month

July Wrap Up—Favorites from the Month

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.

july wrap up favorites

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

july wrap up favorites

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

july wrap up favorites

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

july wrap up favorites

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

Creamy Peanut Butter Chocolate Crisp Bars

Creamy Peanut Butter Chocolate Crisp Bars

Today I’m bringing you guys some magical Creamy Peanut Butter Chocolate Crisp Bars made with Erewhon Organic’s Cinnamon Crispy Brown Rice Cereal.

If you’ve been following my A Day of FLO Living posts, then you’ll know I enjoy eating food that is nourishing for me and my cycle.  Now, I’m not going to sit here and tell you that chocolate-topped peanut butter crisp bars are “health food” but I’ll say they come close.  During my ovulatory phase I was craving sweets LIKE CRAZY—specifically chocolate.  Lucky for me, chocolate is on the list of WomanCode approved foods for ovulatory phase.  Yippee!

peanut butter chocolate dream bars

So, I went into the kitchen, with a bit of guidance from Angela Liddons’ Oh She Glows Everyday Cookbook, and got experimenting.  I used Angela’s recipe for Nut-Free Dream Bars as a base but I tinkered with the sweetener, salt, and, of course, the nut butter.  For me, what makes these bars awesome is the pairing of protein and fat, both of which lessen the sugar punch and make these bars satiating.  Of course, macronutrients aside, the chocolate-peanut butter combination is also a huge appeal!

The result is a large number of bars that are:

Creamy,

Fatty (eh-hem, I mean rich!),

Peanut buttery,

And crunchy from the peanuts and crispy brown rice cereal crust.

They require a small amount of prep but NO BAKING.  This is a freezer treat at its finest.  Plus, once made, they will last forever in the freezer!  Just let them defrost for a few minutes before biting into them.  If you can exercise restraint, let them defrost for five to ten minutes and the peanut butter filling gets extra creamy and oozy.  In fact, the filling contrasts so nicely in that state with the crisp crust and solid chocolate topping.  Together, the three layers make for one delightfully decadent and delicious dessert or snack.

peanut butter chocolate dream bars

Let me know if you give these bars a try!  Just writing this post makes me crave one so I’ll be at my freezer if you need me!  👋

Creamy Peanut Butter Chocolate Crisp Bars
Recipe Type: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Author: Melanie
Prep time:
Cook time:
Total time:
Serves: 18-20 bars
These rich and creamy no-bake bars, adapted from Angela Liddon’s recipe, make for a satisfying dessert or snack when those chocolate peanut butter cravings kick in! The combination of crispiness from the crust and creaminess from the bars just can’t be beat!
Ingredients
  • Crust Ingredients:
  • 1 ½ tbsp melted virgin coconut oil
  • 1 ½ cups Erewhon Organic Cinnamon Brown Rice Cereal
  • 2 tbsp cacao powder or cocoa powder
  • 2 tbsp maple syrup
  • a pinch of salt
  • Filling Ingredients:
  • 1 cup natural peanut butter
  • ¼ cup maple syrup
  • ¼ cup melted virgin coconut oil
  • ¼ to ½ tsp salt, depending on the saltiness of the peanut butter
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Chocolate Topping Ingredients:
  • 1/3 cup melted virgin coconut oil
  • 1/3 cup cacao or cocoa powder
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1/3 cup unsalted dry-roasted peanuts, chopped, for topping
  • Sea salt, for topping, optional
Instructions
  1. Line a large loaf tin (see notes) with parchment paper and lightly grease with coconut oil.
  2. In a bowl, combine the first 5 ingredients for the crust. With a rubber spatula, mash up the cereal until it looks crumby and thoroughly coated. Then, press the crust down into the bottom of the loaf tin. Place it in the freezer while you prepare the filling.
  3. In the same bowl, rinsed and wiped clean, combine the next five ingredients. As a precaution, make sure the ingredients for the filling are all room temperature. If the maple syrup or peanut butter are cold then that will make the coconut oil seize up. The mixture should be smooth. Adjust salt to taste.
  4. Remove the crust from the freezer and pour the filling on top. Gently swivel the pan so that the filling covers the crust completely and so that the top is flat and even. Now, the filling will set in the freezer for an hour before the final topping.
  5. After waiting the appropriate amount of time for the filling to solidify, begin making the chocolate topping. Whisk together melted coconut oil, cacao powder, and maple syrup until no clumps remain. Chop the peanuts and keep them at the ready.
  6. Remove the loaf tin from the freezer and pour the chocolate over the filling. Be warned: it freezes almost instantaneously! While the chocolate is still wet, throw on the peanuts and a sprinkle of sea salt. The chocolate layer will soon solidify from the cold from the loaf tin.
  7. You may then remove the bars, using the parchment paper to lift them out. Move them to a cutting board and slowly cut into 18-20 squares. If the bars seem melty in any way, do put them back into the freezer for 10 minutes or so. They may fall apart if you try cutting them while soft.
  8. The peanut butter chocolate dream bars are best stored in the freezer. Pull one out when you want to enjoy a bar and let it sit at room temperature for up to 3-5 minutes. They will soften to an easier-to-bite state. Wait a little longer and the peanut butter filling gets extra oozy and delicious!
Notes
My baking tin is 9.5 x 5 inches though Angela’s recipe uses a 10 x 6 inch pan. I believe that a standard 9 x 5 loaf tin could work, too but your bars will just be a bit thicker.[br]Cooking time also reflects freezing time in this recipe.

Recipe adapted from Oh She Glows Everyday Cookbook Nut-Free Dream Bars.

Thank you to Attune Foods for providing me with Erewhon Organic Cinnamon Brown Rice Cereal to make this recipe possible.

peanut butter chocolate dream bars

June Wrap-Up: Favorites From This Month

June Wrap-Up: Favorites From This Month

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.

Skillet Greens Sauté

https://www.instagram.com/p/BVNjKQoAsEx/?taken-by=tiu.melanie

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)

Reign

reign favorites from june

Image via IMDB

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!

Big Little Lies

big little lies favorites from june

Image via IMDB

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

My rabbit is always on my favorites list

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.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BVYkQZIA7Yj/?taken-by=tiu.melanie

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.

Yogurt Pro Bowl & Unique Topping Suggestions!

Yogurt Pro Bowl & Unique Topping Suggestions!

Do you remember a year or two back when yogurt bowls were super trendy?  It seemed like yogurt was all the rage for breakfast and healthy snacking—especially once Greek yogurt hit the scene.  How, you might be thinking, can a food be trendy?  Well, sorry, folks, that is a question for someone else.  I don’t start the food trends I just utilize them.

In early 2016, I was on the biggest Greek yogurt kick and would start each day with a bowl.  I’d eat it with berries and granola, melon, or stone fruit—oh, yogurt could do no wrong!  Though, sometime during the summer, I had one too many bowls and got turned off.  Now, it has been months since I’ve consumed it but recently I found myself craving the creamy, refreshing, gut-healthy food.

First things first, I picked up individual serving containers of Silk’s blueberry soy yogurt and Kite Hill’s plain almond milk yogurt.  For the yogurt bowl shown above, I used the almond milk one but you can see me use blueberry coconut flavor in this Instagram post.  I think I like the coconut version the most out of the two but use whatever non-dairy or regular yogurt you like.

As I previously mentioned, yogurt with fruit is an easy pairing.  Nowadays, I want a little more out of my yogurt bowls so I like to add sweet potato, oatmeal, and nut butter to tackle all the food groups at once!  Side note: I like to give credit whree credit is due so, I first saw the idea from @olive.eeeats on Instagram.  It’s hearty, comforting, and a breakfast I can get behind.  It’s a total Yogurt Pro Bowl, if you will.  Also, if some of the items I included aren’t your thing, I’ve included suggestions at the end of this post on how to jazz up your yogurt bowl in an unconventional way.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BUCR_LEArbF/?taken-by=tiu.melanie

For a well-rounded yogurt bowl, I like to include:

Whole grains

Vegetables

Berries or other fruit

Fats

Admittedly, my yogurt bowls turn out different each time so, while I’ve provided my recipe, this is just a guideline.  If you want more or less food, adjust as needed.  There’s no wrong way to measure or plate any of these foods so just eat according to what you’re craving and enjoy!

Yogurt Pro Bowl
Recipe Type: Breakfast
Cuisine: American, Vegan, Vegetarian
Author: Melanie
Prep time:
Total time:
Serves: 1 yogurt bowl
The yogurt pros (that’s us!) prep their ingredients ahead of time. So, use your breakfast yogurt as a chance to toss in some roasted veggies, fruit of choice, and healthy fats. It will give your mind and body the fuel it needs to tackle the day!
Ingredients
  • Overnight oats: 1/3 cup oats, 2 tsp chia seeds, 1/2 cup water or milk, 1/2 tsp maca powder, 1/2 tsp cacao powder
  • 1/2 cup yogurt
  • Roasted sweet potato fries (from 1/2 small-med sized potato), sprinkled with cinnamon
  • 1/2 small-med sized banana
  • 1/4 cup raspberries
  • 1/4 avocado
  • 1 tbsp ground flax
  • 1 tbsp of peanut butter (I used Wild Friends Pumpkin Spice)
  • 2 tbsp granola, optional but recommended for texture (I used Purely Elizabeth Chocolate Probiotic)
  • A pinch of Himalayan pink sea salt, recommended to sprinkle on avocado (I used San Francisco Salt Company)
Instructions
  1. For the oats, combine all of the ingredients the night before. Alternatively, warm, stovetop oats could be substituted.
  2. For the yogurt bowl, first add the oatmeal to one half of the bowl and the yogurt to the other half.
  3. Then, I like to strategically lay out all of the toppings in different sections of the bowl but feel free to toss them all in together. Though, I should say, the sweet potato fries are best left on the sides of the bowl to utilize as yogurt dippers. 😉
  4. Lastly, sprinkle salt on avocado, drizzle nut butter, and add a few clumps of granola before taking a spoon and devouring!

 

yogurt pro bowl

In my opinion, what makes this elevated yogurt bowl different is that it doesn’t solely rely on fruit to make it awesome.  Plus, it doesn’t shy away from carbs or fat.  Normally yogurt is considered the low-calorie, dieter’s choice breakfast.  Which it can be but I’d like to prove yogurt can be fun so long as you know how to jazz it up! 🙂 Actually, as a matter of fact,…

There are many choices for yogurt bowl add-ins!

Whole grains: Stovetop oats or overnight oats, buckwheat, quinoa cooked in coconut milk, warm barley, or simply use a homemade whole grain muffin—YES!

Vegetables:  Roasted or sautéed carrots, sweet potato, butternut squash, cauliflower, or Brussels sprouts if you’re feeling adventurous!

Spice it up: Cinnamon, nutmeg, turmeric, rosemary, paprika, or sweeten with maple syrup or raw/coconut sugar.

Fruit: As you probably know, ANY fresh, frozen, or sautéed fruit you like will work!

Fats: 1-2 tbsp peanut, almond, or sunflower seed butter; toasted walnuts or pumpkin seeds, cinnamon-maple glazed pecans, ¼ of an avocado, or coconut flakes will do.

Bonus: Granola, hemp seeds, adaptogens, flax or chia seeds.

Here are some pairing ideas I cannot wait to try:

Roasted carrots with blackberries, quinoa, and sunflower seed butter; crispy roasted Brussels, with cinnamon maple-glazed pecans, blueberries, and barley; also, sautéed turmeric butternut squash with coconut oil sautéed apples, and toasted walnuts.

Of course, those are just a few ideas.  Mix and match according to your taste buds!  Also, please let me know how you enjoy yogurt or if you’ve got any wild yogurt pairings.  I’d love to try out something new!