Good morning & happy Monday, everyone! I made a big mistake this morning. I decided to watch a YouTube video, which led me to another, and another, and now I’m hours behind on this recap! *Note to self* Don’t get sucked into YouTube on a recap Monday! I just made a hot cup of lemon ginger tea, and now I’m ready to get this recap started. No more distractions. 
I spent Monday morning getting my Mountain trip post and YouTube video published, and then caught up on all the emails from the weekend. I’m still working on a second post with more photos and details on the weekend away, so you can expect that this week!
I was hitting my 3 pm slump after walking the dogs on Monday afternoon, so I made a cappuccino with oat milk and these Peet’s espresso pods I found at Target. I was so excited when I found them because they are much cheaper than the Nespresso brand pods. They matched up to the Nespresso pods, and I look forward to trying their other capsules. You can find the Peet’s espresso pods on Amazon as well. They come in a variety pack with 40 pods, which is a great deal. I may end up trying that out. I’ll let you know what I think!
After hitting the gym on Monday night, I had my leftover stir-fry. I had a square of dark chocolate, took a shower, and then headed straight to bed. Of course, I stayed up until midnight watching t.v. when my original plan was to fall asleep early.
Tuesday was for crafting.
If you missed it, make sure to check out my new DIY post for the fall wreaths I made. It was so easy and a lot of fun.
My smoothie had vanilla Orgain protein powder, frozen mixed berries (blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, strawberries, cherries), unsweetened cashew milk, and topped with creamy peanut butter and Purely Elizabeth grain-free banana nut butter granola.
My second project was to fix the pillows that lovely Leo ruined. He likes to climb on top of the pillows and sit up high. Sometimes he rips them with his nails. The strings were delicate on these pillows, so I used some thread to sew them tightly onto the pillow. I did an awful job, but it did the trick! I didn’t care what they looked like as long as the strings weren’t hanging off. I can tuck that part under another pillow, and no one will have any clue! Kyle and I built Leo a bed high near the window, and he’s been using that instead of the pillows, so we’ll see if it helps long term. I could solve the problem by not letting my dogs on the couch, but let’s be real, that won’t ever happen. 
On Tuesday night, I headed over to my parent’s house. I wanted the dogs to get out their zoomies and run around. I brought over some healthy pumpkin bars for my parent’s (their favorite) and one of the wreaths for my mom. She was in love, and it looked nice on her front door. There is only one more bar left in my freezer right now, so I may have to make some later this afternoon. 
I was NOT feeling well on Wednesday. I have endometriosis, and during my period, the symptoms are so incredibly painful. They are worse in the morning, and worse at night. I try my best to relax, exercise, drink tons of water, healthy food, take hot baths, use heating pads, stretch, and not forget my medication. I sometimes think I can battle out the pain, but later reminded that it’s unavoidable.
Kyle came home with a bouquet of flowers because he knew I wasn’t feeling good at all. It brightened up my day. It was really cute because he asked the florist to make something “fall themed” because he knew it would make me happy. Sorry to get mushy on here, but he’s so cute.
I did end up going to the gym to walk, which helps with the pain. When I’m sitting too long, it’s not good.
For Wednesday, I created a “WHAT I ATE” video! If you want me to do more of these, leave a comment in the YouTube video section.
I was feeling much better on Thursday.
After Kyle and I walked the dogs, I had a quick breakfast. I had a slice of Udi’s bread, two eggs, and avocado slices. I added Earth Balance vegetable-based butter spread to the toast as well. 
I decided to go with green juice for lunch. I juiced three lemons, four cucumbers, four cups of kale, two apples, and a WHOLE LOT OF GINGER. I drank half of the blend and then poured the rest into an ice tray to use for smoothies. 
Kyle and I headed to Columbia together on Thursday afternoon. I heard Columbia had some pretty cute coffee shops, and it turned out to be true. I stopped at the Blue Flour Bakery. When 3 pm rolls around, I’m so ready for my second cup of coffee! I don’t know what it is about my afternoon coffee, but it brings so much happiness to my daily routine. It’s all about the little traditional things. I like having something to look forward to, especially when it’s cozy and delicious. Trying out new coffee shops and sipping coffee while exploring a new place, just makes me a happy person. 
When you’re in the South, FALL is for frizzy hair, lattes, and wishing it was cooler out! 
We were so hungry when we got in the car, so we decided to stop at Whole Foods and have a quick bite to eat. I had roasted Brussels sprouts, kale, garlic green beans, spinach, tofu, pulled pork, grilled corn, and a honey mustard vinaigrette on top. 
I spent my Friday doing a power clean and returning a few items at the mall. I also picked up a new doormat and some fall decorations for the house. I’ll share those soon! The dogs got a lot of miles in as well.
Kyle and I met up with my parent’s at the courts on Friday night to play tennis. We whooped their butts! We played until late, and then headed home! I showered off, jumped into bed, and passed out super quick! 
I was up early and ready for another three hours of tennis on Saturday morning with my group! 
I was soooooo hungry when I got home. I showered and then made a quick smoothie before Kyle, and I headed to the mall. My smoothie had cashew milk, mint leaves, spinach, chocolate protein powder (orgain), bananas, cocoa nibs, creamy peanut butter, and almonds! This is a great to-go treat!
We took the dogs for a long walk later Saturday evening, and then I roasted some vegetables for dinner. I had broccolini, butternut squash, bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus. I tossed them in sesame oil, black pepper, and sea salt after baking.
I was up bright and early on Sunday morning. I was ready to tackle the day and all my projects that came along with it.
I picked up some mums for the front porch and paint for the front door. I’m going to the pumpkin patch later today to get some pumpkins! All of my neighbors have their fall decor out, so I can’t wait to pull the look together!
Before I got started on the painting project, I made Kyle and I some omelets for breakfast.
Mine had one egg, three egg whites, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and roasted vegetables. Kyle’s had one egg, four egg whites, roasted red potatoes, ground turkey, Havarti cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Delicious! I sliced up some strawberries and almonds for the side. 
After browsing Pinterest, I felt inspired to paint the inside of my front door. I think it adds so much character to space, and I’m all about the cozy vibes it brings. I chose the color “AGAVE” and used a semi-gloss enamel paint & primer all in one paint. 
I will take better photos of it soon, but I’m happy with how it turned out! Above my door, there used to be a frosty glass layer, and I removed that. I like that more light can shine through and I can see the trees outside. You can’t really tell in this photo! 
After painting, I vacuumed the floors, mopped, did some laundry, and then sat down to have a latte! When 3 pm rolls around, I’m alllll about that latte life! I topped my oat milk latte with nutmeg. 
I had this Annie’s organic, gluten-free vegan mac and cheese box in my cabinet for a while now. I thought it would be fun to try it out to go with my leftover roasted vegetables. After boiling the macaroni, I drained and rinsed, and then mixed in plant-based butter, salt, pepper, and cashew milk. HOLY MOLY!!!!!!!!! It’s amazing. Kyle liked it too! I will 100% buy this again. I was nervous to try it after having a couple of other vegan brands of mac and cheese, but this one did not disappoint. You’ll need to add salt and vegan butter to make it taste more like the real deal. 
I may have this same thing for lunch today! 😊
Thank you guys for stopping by to read my weekly recap. I appreciated your input on the recaps last week! It made me feel good about the content, even if it is just a “boring” week. You guys are the best! 💜
Questions for you!
- Do you have something small you look forward to each day?
- Did you do anything to celebrate the first day of fall?
- What was the last thing you purchased on Amazon?
How fun! Seems like Kyle has a lot more time off lately — is he still working? I know before you said it was hard for him to get time off of work? You guys are cute!
Nope! Kyle works 9-5 Mon-Fri. We try to walk the dogs before he goes in, after work, and the quick trip to Columbia was something he had to do for work. 😊
My morning cup(s) of coffee get me right out of bed excited haha!
Last thing I bought on amazon was vitamin b12!
Haha! Me too! Maybe that’s why I wake up so early 🙂
A good purchase!
I look forward to coming home and seeing my fur babies <3
I went swimming to celebrate the first day of fall. Just kidding, we don't celebrate fall in Florida. But I did swim all weekend.
The last thing I bought on Amazon was paper clips for work. Personally the last thing I bought was…..trash bags!
THE BEST! 🐾
Hahaha! That’s too funny. We do Thanksgiving in Florida and it’s so funny because it feels NOTHING like Thanksgiving. But Kyle’s mom makes the BEST food, so we get the vibes that way!
LOL I buy my trash bags on Amazon too!
I’m so obsessed with the wreaths that you made! My friend and I went hiking over the weekend and were discussing how looking at them was giving us all the fall deocr inspiration! And now I’m also obsessed with the color of your door! I would never have thought to paint my door on the inside, but it adds so much flair and it pairs so well with your wreath!
Thanks so much, Alexa!
I hope you and your friend make them! They really put you in the fall mood and I think the best part is picking out the crafts!
I would have NEVER thought of it either. THANK YOU, Pinterest! 😀
I have Celiac disease and can’t have dairy…you should try the Daiya macaroni and cheese. It has the squeeze pouch and everything!
Hi, Cori!
I tried the Daiya mac & cheese last year but didn’t like it at all. I felt like it had a sour-y taste? However, I LOVE their pizza and cheese shreds!
1. Do you have something small you look forward to each day?
I work for a company where I’m at a desk and computer all day, so my lunchtime walk is a life saver! On rainy days, I walk at the gym or the mall close by; I rarely miss a day!
2. Did you do anything to celebrate the first day of fall?
I made a big batch of chili, took a beautiful fall walk (no leaves turning yet, but the cooler temps did feel nice), and enjoyed some pumpkin spice coffee and pumpkin bars (your whole wheat 60 cal recipe!)
3. What was the last thing you purchased on Amazon?
Mrs. Meyers Apple Cider liquid dish soap and “Girl Wash Your Face” by Rachel Hollis.
Side note: I tried that vegan Annie’s mac & cheese a couple of months ago and thought it was surprisingly great! Glad you tried it 🙂
Have a great week!
Hi, Jen!
I love that you get out and go for a walk! What a great way to get the endorphins flowing. I always look forward to my walks every day too.
MMM I need to make some chili. That sounds so good! Makes me smile that you made my recipe! ❤️ Those are my dad’s favorite!
I just read a review for that book! Let me know what you think!
If you didn’t this time, try it with earth balance butter, salt, and pepper!
1. I always look forward to coffee in the morning after meeting my friends at 5:00 am to run. I also love coming home from work to my puppy, Walter, he is the sweetest and there is nothing quite like being greeted by a dog <3
2. I didn't celebrate the first day of fall because we were traveling to Tucson for a friend's wedding and it felt NOTHING like fall there! Now that I am back in Salt Lake City and the highs this week are in the low 70s it is perfect for all things fall! I've got lots of soups planned for dinner this week and pumpkin cookies to be made! I can't wait to take the pup on a hike up the canyon right by my apartment to take in all the changing colors.
3. The last thing I purchased on Amazon was beef tendons for Walter. I promise I have a life outside of my dog, but not much 😉
Wow, you and your friends are so dedicated! Love it.
I couldn’t agree more with you about returning home to the pup! Walter is such a cute name for a dog!
Kyle and I want to visit SLC so bad! When we do, I’ll have to pick your brain for all the must-see spots! I bet it’s gorgeous in fall!
Hahaha I totally get you with the dog stuff 😊
Salt Lake is awesome! I know Utah has a weird reputation, but Salt Lake and Park City (20 minutes up into the mountains from Salt Lake) are like very diverse little bubbles. There is tons of outdoorsy stuff to do. Loads of hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, skiing in the winter, and it is all within 20 minutes to an hour outside of downtown. September is GORGEOUS! One of my favorite months here by far! Southern Utah is beautiful for dessert scenery too. Moab is about 3 hours from Salt Lake and its a completely different scenery. I could go on forever, Utah girl through and through!
Thanks for the recs!! We really want to do the outdoorsy stuff in Utah and it’s such a gorgeous state!!
You look beautiful in red!
That is so sweet! Thank you 😊
1. I look forward to reading before bed with my husband 🙂 I am about to read a thriller called The Final Girls by Riley Sager and I’m really excited. I recently read another book by him, The Last Time I Lied and it was sooooo good.
2. I got back from a trip to Prague on the 21st so I was too jet-lagged to celebrate fall but I think I will run over to Target tomorrow to purchase some white pumpkins and festive hand towels.
3. The last thing I purchased on Amazon was chamomile essential oil for my diffuser and Australian paw paw ointment. I use the latter as chapstick; it is like Carmex but without the bad smell and unlike other lip balms it actually moisturizes. You can even use it on cuts and insect bites I think? Natalie Portman swears by it.
That granola you mentioned is my absolute favorite! So addicted. I am in love with the banana flavor and I can’t wait to try the pumpkin.
Your blue door looks really nice, it is a great pop of color.
Hi, Avalon!
Ohhhh PLEASE let me know how that is!! LOVE a good thriller. I’ll look into that second book.
I bet Prague is gorgeous. One of my friends is from there! Enjoy your Target trip! I have a feeling you’ll come out of there with more than just pumpkins and hand towels 😉
Great purchases!
YES!! I just recently tried it and got hooked. Thrive Market has a similar grain-free granola that is really good!
Thanks so much! I was scared it would look awful, but it turned out pretty good!
Those roasted veggies look so good! I’m going on a trip in a couple of days so I’m trying to eat everything in my fridge so it doesn’t go to waste.
And I love your red dress! Reminds me of the dancing emoji girl 🙂
http://www.justbeingbrooklyn.com
Thanks, Brooklyn! 😊
I can relate to that! I always try to eat everything before we leave and the freezer gets the rest of it!
Have an amazing trip! ❤️
Feelin’ the fall vibes in this post, so cosy! ❤️❤️
I actually flew to London on the first day of fall – I’m there right now! Still can’t resist checking out a few blogs here and there between all the exploring, though! 🙂
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
Thank you so much, Charmaine!
Enjoy your time in London! The perfect time to be there! ♥️
xo
I look forward to improving myself and my life each day. It is a bit challenging as of late.
I worked out on the first day of Autumn. I also took the day to de-stress and plan things out for the next couple of weeks.
As for the last item I purchased on Amazon, that was an ultra wide angle lens for my Canon DSLR. I used it to take pictures of the milky way a few months back when I got it.
I love the blog post for the week. It didn’t seem boring to me and was an enjoyable past time to read it. I always considered playing tennis, but I am always giving in to my laziness when it comes to the idea of playing a sport that uses a ton of energy.
Question For You:
Do you have any advice for someone who may be considering a move to Charlotte, NC?
Hi, Brooke!
I love that you are proactive about improving yourself. I think we all need to be a little less hard on ourselves and take each day for what it is. Small changes make the biggest difference. You got this!!
I bet your photos are Gorgeous! What a fun experience.
Tennis is one of those sports where it’s SO FUN that it doesn’t seem like you’re using a ton of energy. I could play for HOURS! You should try it out 😊
It all depends on what you’re moving to Charlotte for. I ALWAYS tell people “yes” when they think about moving to Charlotte. There is everything here, the weather is great, the people are friendly, and it’s growing so fast. Most people living in Charlotte aren’t from Charlotte. It’s filled with all kinds of people, different neighborhoods, and can fulfill the hobbies of almost anyone. I love that it’s close to the ocean, the mountains, it’s a safe and clean city, and the restaurants don’t disappoint. If you are looking for a job here, I’d try to find the job first, and then go into looking for which neighborhood would fit you best! 😊
I will most definitely try tennis out. At least I could say that I have tried something new outside my comfort zone.
Thanks for the advice! The fact that it is close to the ocean and mountains is a definite selling point for me, as I love hiking and I haven’t had a chance to be near an ocean for many years. I will keep all that you said in mind. 🙂
Yes! That is awesome 🙂 Glad you’re going to try it out!
Maybe take a week to visit Charlotte and all around the areas!
It seems like you had a super crafty and relaxed week! I love your smoothie bowls and 3pm latte obsession lol.
1. Dog walks, the gym, FOOD, & washing my face/putting my hair up in a bun at the end!
2. Pumpkin patch!!
3. Yoga mats & Dr. Harvey’s dry dog food mix
Hope you had an amazing Monday! <3
Hi, Sarah!
Hahaha my 3 pm’s get REAL crazy😜
Number one was literally my night! lol
OHHHH I still need to visit the patch!!
Great purchases!
Have a great week! xo xo
Taralynn
I love that Kyle brought you flowers because you weren’t feeling well :). Ben will always bring me chocolate and salty snacks when I’m on my period. Even though I don’t have nearly the pain you do, I still get pretty miserable with cramps and backache (especially now that I stopped taking hormonal birth control). Men that aren’t afraid to acknowledge a period and make their ladies feel better are the best!
I look forward to my pre-workout cup of coffee! It’s the only cup I drink all day and it’s my reward for waking up at 4:30. SO worth it!
We went to the farmers market and a friend’s party but at 85 degrees, it did NOT feeling like the first day of fall here.
The last things I got from Amazon were teacher supplies! Flip chart sharpies (THE BEST), a birthday chart, and a new book called Not A Box. My next purchase is all kinds of falls clothes that I’ve been eyeing :). Woo hoo!
Have a great week lady!
Cramps are cramps and they ALL suck! 😞 Ben is a smart man!
You are so good with your limited coffee! And 4:30, girl? Superwoman!
Haha, you’ll have gorgeous fall weather soon. Don’t you worry!
Have you tried the Amazone Wardrobe?!?! I’m going to try it out!
I am in love with how your door turned out! It adds that cutest tough to your home. I am also in love with dress you wore in Columbia – so pretty!!
1. I always look forward to my morning cup of coffee and breakfast. Mornings are my favorite and there is something so wonderful about sipping your first cup of coffee while making breakfast.
2. On the first day of Fall I went to the grocery store to purchase a million cans of pumpkin so I make ALL the pumpkin foods – your pumpkin bars are on my list!!
3. The last thing I purchased on Amazon was Kristin Cavallari’s cookbook “True Roots” after I binge watched “Very Cavallari” on E! hahaha
Have the best week <3
Thank you so much, Anastasia!
That dress is so comfortable! I wish LOFT would restock it!
OMG you must make them! I ate the last one tonight 😭
Haha I saw two episodes. Let me know how the cookbook is!
xo
How’s the purely elizabeth granola? I have been curious about it for a while. Trader Joe’s has a good grain free granola that I use to top my smoothies. The pillows looks so cute! Seeing all of your tennis photos has inspired me to look for lessons in my area. I have played for fun in the past and have enjoyed it. Definitely a beginner, Always looking for creative fitness routines that keep me interested.
It’s GREAT! I’ve only tried the grain-free one. It’s super crispy and flavorful!
I’m so happy you’re going to pick up tennis. It’s literally THE BEST!!
I can’t wait to try that mac and cheese! Where did you find that?
Whole Foods has it! Amazon carries it and so do some normal grocery stores !
You always have the cutest mugs!
awww thank you!
I love how crafty and creative you are, wish I had those talents, lol but I don’t.
1 – I look forward to coffee every day
2 – change my curtains and living room decor to more fall-ish colors
3 – I honestly don’t remember, its been a long time since I ordered something from amazon
It’s ALLLLL Pinterest, Lily 😉
ME TOOOOO ☕️
I bet it looks so cute and cozy!!
wuuuuut lol
I love the splash of color with the door! We rent our house so we aren’t able to paint the walls or doors. 🙁 I have to make do with decorations and furniture to offset the white walls.
I’m so jealous that you’re able to get pumpkins now! It’s so hot in Tucson that if we get any now they will melt/rot before we can even appreciate them.
I plan on making your pumpkin spice bars soon! I just love pumpkin flavored things.
Hi, Samantha!
Thanks so much!! You can do a lot with decor pieces so I bet your place is so cute and cozy!
It’s REALLY hot here too, but somehow the pumpkins are available lol
I can’t wait to hear how the bars turn out for you!!
Did not even know Annie’s had a vegan Mac and cheese…WILL be trying this for sure! 😁
You’re going to LOVE it!
Your blog will always be my favorite. I’m happy you’re now doing YouTube!
Awww, thanks Dez!!!
I love the front door! I get so tired of everything being white or gray and that adds a beautiful bit of color!! 👌
1. Hmmm, I really had to think about this. But I really like when my kids giggle & also at the end of the day when the kids are in bed and I can just relax with my hubby.
2. Nope,I keep meaning to do something!
3. Well, since your question reminded me to do it…I just bought Lilo & Stitch for my daughter. Before that, I added cat food to my subscribe and save. 😂
Thanks so much, Zoe!!
That is a cute little moment! 💜
You still have plenty of time! 🎃
lol that’s the best way to go!
What is your favorite vegan spot in Charlotte?
Definitely Living Kitchen!
Is Kyle a personal trainer?
He’s not, but he’d be a great one!
Where are your shoes from
Those are from Cato!
You look great in that red dress. Where’s it from?
Aw, thanks! It’s from the LOFT but they don’t have it available anymore 😔
Can you make a homemade psl?
Currently trying to perfect one!
Look up @medicalmedium on instagram! He’s written a couple health books and also has a blog on his website and he mentions fertility in a couple of different places. Implementing some of his health advice has helped with some of my health issues and I think it would be worth looking into for healing endometriosis.
Love your blog!
Thank you!
I would like to send you a tennis bag. Can I email you?
Shoot me an email 🙂