Good morning and Happy Fall, y’all!
How are you today? All is well over here as we approach a weekend that will be pretty full thanks to our plans to attend a birthday party and a local festival amid plenty of time outside and around the house. I hope your weekend is the perfect combination of fun and relaxing!
Since it is Friday, it’s time to focus on some of the little things that make us smile on the blog today in your weekly Things I’m Loving Friday roundup! Below you will find a few things that I am loving this week and, as always, I would love for you to join in and share something wonderful from your life in the comments section of this post.
Have a great weekend!
Things I’m Loving Friday
- Chase Saying “I Love You”
File this one under baby babble only a mother can understand, but my heart absolutely melts every time Chase says his version of “I love you.” It probably sounds more like “ay yi yi” to everyone other than me but I’ll take it! He is such a little chatterbox and it’s so fun to see him using his voice more and more, even if his current favorite noise to make is “ehhhh” when he wants me to bring him whatever it is I’m eating/doing/touching at the moment. What’s mine is Chase’s these days!
- Upcoming Trip to Asheville
I am so, so excited because two weeks ago, Ryan and I booked a house just outside of Asheville for a 7-day mountain vacation with my family. We had such a wonderful time d uring our mountain getaway in Boone and Banner Elk last year (<—Chase was so tiny!!!) that we had to make it happen again this fall. I am really looking forward to exploring Asheville during our stay and, as always, I welcome any recommendations you guys may have for things to do, restaurants to try, trails to hike and more! (I already have a solid list going thanks to your recs on my Facebook page!) The countdown to our vacation is officially ON and I cannot wait!
I’m sharing this one here for my fellow Hamilton-loving friends! Hamilton’s America, the documentary film that brings history to life through the lens of the hit Broadway musical Hamilton, debuts on PBS on October 21 at 9 p.m. (EST) and you better believe I will be watching! I’ve been playing the Hamilton soundtrack in our house non-stop for weeks now and simply cannot get enough.
- A New Email List (Finally!)
So it has only taken me 7+ years, but I am finally getting around to creating a newsletter! Subscribers will receive blog posts and other fun updates right to your inbox for free! Never miss a recipe, workout or Peanut Butter Fingers update! You’ll also receive updates about the Dinner Made Easy ebook that will be launching NEXT week! I will share more information next week but the Dinner Made Easy ebook is an affordable (and healthy!) monthly meal plan that contains recipes, grocery lists and food prep tips. I can’t wait to share it with you guys soon!
Anyway, if you’d like to subscribe to my email list, simply enter your email address in the box below. I’d love to have you along for the ride!
- StitchFix for Men
Did you guys hear the news!? StitchFix just launched the styling service for men! I’ve been ordering regular fixes for years and am so excited to have Ryan try out the service, too. Last night he created a style profile and I’ll be sure to keep you guys posted to let you know what he thinks of his first delivery! (Also, if you are a current StitchFix client, be sure to use your referral link to invite the man in your life to try the service so you can receive a $25 credit to your account!) Now if only we could get them to do children’s fixes…
- Joyful Eating, Nourished Life (October 10 Program Registration Open!)
Round two of the Joyful Eating, Nourished Life program that focuses on intuitive and mindful eating begins October 10 and registration is open now! My good friend Anne from Fannetastic Food teamed up with two fellow dietitians, Alex from Delish Knowledge and Rachael from Avocado A Day Nutrition, to create a 6-week program designed to teach you how to get healthy without deprivation, calorie counting or stress about food or exercise. The program will not introduce restrictions into your life, but focuses on changing the way you interact with food and exercise and create awareness of the emotions behind those decisions.
According to the program’s website, Joyful Eating might be right for you if you:
Feel extreme guilt when eating certain foods
Struggle with lack of energy despite trying to eat healthy and exercise
Experience periods of uncontrolled or binge eating
Feel uncomfortable in your own body
Turn to food in times of stress or sadness
Are out of touch with your body’s hunger and fullness cues
Are sick and tired of calorie counting and following rigid diets that leave you feeling exhausted, depleted and like a failure
Registration for the October 10 program is now open and you may find out more information and read testimonials from those who participated in the first round of the program here.
- Friday Flashbacks
Tips for Packing Everything in a Carryon Suitcase (I hate checking a bag when I travel and this post includes a handful of tips and tricks I use to ensure I can carry-on nearly every time I fly!)
Extra Chunky Homemade Chicken Soup (An easy and filling gluten-free soup recipe that is absolutely packed with vegetables and chicken. A wonderful Sunday food prep meal that you can reheat throughout the week!)
Question of the Day
- What is one thing that is making you smile today?
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Disclaimer: This post is not sponsored in any way but does contain affiliate links that do not effect the prices of items included in this post whatsoever. Thank you, as always, for your continued support!
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OMG we are going to Asheville in October. CANNOT WAIT. Should be close to peak color that time of year.
That is too cute about Chase. I still haven’t tried Stitch Fix. I need to get on that one of these days!
Yay, Asheville! A friend of mine just took a weekend trip there and loved it. Also, I’m reading your carry-on packing post right now. I leave for a 12-day trip to Germany and Ireland in less than a week. Think I can get away with packing everything I need into a carry-on only? Have yo ever done it?!
–>https://poweredbysass.com/2016/09/22/happy-fall-yall/
You can totally do it! I used just a carry-on for a 3 week trip to China! It’s sort of a fun challenge! Good luck and have so much fun!
I think I might give it a whirl! I don’t like waiting for checked bags at baggage claim anyway!! Thanks for the tip and encouragement! 🙂
-> http://www.poweredbysass.com
When your baby says I love you for the first time it is everything! And it never gets old. That is so sweet. Asheville is so beautiful, we had an amazing trip two years ago and I’d love to go back!
I’m not sure if you or anyone else in your fam is a beer lover, but Asheville has some amazing craft breweries. We especially love wicked weed.
http://www.saveur.com/gallery/asheville-breweries?image=0
Tons of great breweries, but I think my favorites are Wicked Weed and Twin Leaf (very family-friendly!). We just went on a hike at Craggy Pinnacle that is 18 miles north of Asheville up the Blue Ridge Parkway. It’s not long or difficult, but the views are fantastic! I love the website https://www.romanticasheville.com/hiking.html for finding great hikes in the area. Also, be sure to stop at The Hop for ice cream…so delicious!
thank you!
I LOVE the Hamilton soundtrack too so I’m excited to hear there’s a documentary coming out! I dont’ think I’ll ever be able to see it in person, so this is the next best thing 🙂
The day Stich Fix comes to Europe I will be a happy camper!! While I do enjoy shopping, I know life will get even busier after graduation (let alone starting a family!) that this service seems like a wonderful way to enjoy new clothes without having to venture out into daylight!!!! (just kidding 😉 )
Ahhh When I first read this I though Thred Up for Men… then realized I had mixed them. I buy almost all of my cloths used but my man struggles to find stylish male cloths used. Maybe one day…
Aww how sweet on Chase saying I love you. In the coming months his vocabulary is going to grow and grow fast!! One thing that is making me smile is fresh pumpkins and gourds on my front porch, I’m so ready for fall! Have a great weekend!
I have ticket to see ‘Hamilton’ in December, and I CANNOT WAIT! I entered the ticket lottery when I was in NYC in march and lost all six times I entered (whomp, whomp), so when I actually got my hands on a pair of tickets, I was ecstatic! I’m also super excited for the PBS special 🙂
Have a great weekend!
JEALOUS!!!! I hope it’s as amazing as it seems!
One thing that is making me smile today?
Took a pregnancy test last night and it was positive. My sweet husband and I are so happy! I feel like I am on cloud nine right now. Too early to tell anyone so I will just soak in this joy with him.
Oh my gosh!!!! YAY! Congratulations to you!!!!! SO exciting!! <3 <3 <3
Thank you! I will be putting your baby blog posts to go use! 🙂
Greetings from Raleigh! As a fellow North Carolinian transplant Asheville is one of my favs! For Breakfast Biscuit Head is a MUST! Do not pass GO! Plan to go there multiple times or make the effort to go just once…you will not be disappointed. You can’t go wrong with Tupelo Honey. Wicked Weed is a great spot for din and a drink. Great atmosphere…outdoor seating, local brew, and the food is on point. Curate was booked a week out when we went and we went to Zambras instead which was fun. (Stellar date night.) As far as what to do…You absolutely have to do Biltmore…I think it is a requirement for first time visitors. If you go…splurge for the headphones on the house tour, you get a lot more out of the experience. Have lunch at the Stable Cafe…it’s beautiful and also part of the experience. Something I highly recommend and an adventure me and my girlfriends still talk about was one of the highlights of our trip…go on the walking ghost tour with Haunted Asheville. It is a walking tour of the city and the guides are very knowledgeable and fun. This is not a hokey tour where actors play zombies and someone jumps out of the shadows. It is straight up stories of historical events that happened in the city. Make time the next day to revisit the sites they point out. The bullseye is crazy! (A perfect date night pairing with either Curate or Zambras.) Because you are going to be there for 7 days…take a day and go hiking for waterfalls in the Pisgah forest. Ok…that was long but necessary. Enjoy and I can’t wait to read of your adventures.
Thanks so much for taking the time to share this with me! Great recommendations!!!
I want to see Hamilton so badly!! It’s coming to Omaha next year!!!
There is a Stitch Fix-like service for kids – it’s called Mac & Mia (www.macandmia.com.) My little guy is right near Chase’s age, and they have some really cute clothes!
I have always wanted to go to Ashville after seeing it on a few TV shows and blogs. I bet it’s beautiful this time of year! And yay for an email list, all signed up =)
I’m so with you on the “Completely Obsessed with Hamilton” bandwagon! I can’t wait for the documentary.
My daughter just started saying “thank you” and I feel the same way that maybe everyone else doesn’t quite hear it the way I do, but I know she’s saying it! She also claps her hands together (trying to sign “more”) whenever I’m trying to eat! I can’t have a snack in peace these days
So sweet!!
My parents took a trip to Asheville a few months ago and can’t stop raving about it. I’m hoping to make it up there one of those days! And I feel like Stitch Fix will have to come out with kids stuff next – it just makes sense 🙂
“I’ve been playing the Hamilton soundtrack in our house *non-stop* for weeks now and simply cannot get enough.”
MAAAAAAN, The man is NON-STOP
Why do you assume you’re the smartest in the room?
Why do you assume you’re the smartest in the room?
Why do you assume you’re the smartest in the room?
Why do you assume you’re the smartest in the room?
(pardon my tangent.. I can’t get it out of my head either!)
LOL!!! So good!
I am unsure if you are looking for a relaxing place in asheville but Omni Grove Spa is the most amazing SPA i have ever gone to! The view is amazing and absolutely breathtaking and there service is amazing! 🙂 I booked a manicure because it was pricey but you get to use the spa all day long!!! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
My boyfriend and I went to Asheville a couple years ago and had dinner at the Sunset Terrace at the Omni Grove Park Inn, which overlooks the mountains – it was gorgeous and the food was delicious, too!
Asheville looks like a beautiful place! I can see why you’d want to go back. I hope you enjoy your week away.
Asheville is one our family’s favorites places to visit! We’ve gone like 4 times and will be going for Thanksgiving this year too. I agree with the recommendation to do the audio tour for your first visit to Biltmore. If you’re a fan of Downton Abbey, you should do the Behind-the-Scenes Guided Upstairs – Downstairs Tour (when we did it, it was called the Butler’s Tour). We really like eating at Cedric’s Tavern on the Biltmore Grounds. Places around Asheville we like to eat: Tupelo Honey, White Duck Taco Shop, Early Girl Eatery, Sunny Point Cafe, The Corner Kitchen, Korean House, and Salsa Mexican Caribbean Restaurant (heads up service is hit or miss at this one). And if you are into zip lining, I HIGHLY recommend Navitat Asheville. It was so awesome. 🙂 Have fun!
Asheville is one of the best places to get away to relax. My husband and I took our new dog there for a 5 day weekend and it was fabulous. One of the best places to eat was The Cantina near the Biltmore Historic Village (dog friendly!) and for dessert French Broad Chocolates. The best lemon cake with strawberry icing ever.
Have Fun!
AWE He is so close to pronouncing it! That is so cute he already says I LOVE YOU!!!!!! I am craving soup since it has been cold, windy, and rainy for the last two days!
Hi Julie! I’ve been reading your blog for years (love it!) but have never commented. But when I read you were going to Asheville, I just had to share some favorites. Asheville is probably my favorite place ever. My husband and I have been there many times and are always ready to go back. Definitely visit the Biltmore Estate. The back porch has the most beautiful views! With your admission you will also get to visit the winery, a short drive from the Biltmore house. Adjacent to the winery is the Bistro restaurant- have lunch there. It has been great every time we’ve gone. When you finish up at the estate, just outside is an area called Biltmore Village. There are many cuties shops to look around- I recommend Origami Ink- a great stationary, pen, jewelry, and knick knack store. Also, next door to that is Well Bred, a great bakery/sandwich shop. Try anything- I am partial to the mountain eclair. Downtown Asheville has many great restaurants. My number one pick is Limones. I still dream about the lobster nachos and mushroom enchiladas I had the last time I was there! White Duck Taco is great for lunch. Tupelo Honey for breakfast. As far as stuff to do, I highly recommend you try Navitat for spectacular zip lining. I’m not sure if you will have any help with childcare, but if you do, you guys should do the Blue Ridge Experience. Also, if you like white water rafting, Nantahala Outdoor Center is in Bryson City which is pretty close. Nice day trip, some fun Rapids, and a nice store there. Also there is a train in Bryson City- you can even do the rafting and train as a package deal! I know you guys love to hike. There are so many great ones. You can’t really go wrong. Chimney a Rock Park is also nice. Some good hikes there to a waterfall. I hope this helps some. Asheville is just such a great place, especially if you love the outdoors. But those are just some of my favorites. Hope you have a great trip. I can’t wait to see your pictures!
YAY!! Thank you so much for taking the time to share your recommendations with me! <3
Hi Julie!
The restaurant called the Nine Mile in Asheville is really good! It is located outside of one of the neighborhoods in town and it had a really neat vibe inside. The food is caribbean, but it is all local and very tasty! You can eat outside or inside. It may be crowded around common dinner times, but I recommend it!
This suggestion may also be a bit too far away, but Brevard is a really neat town with some great waterfalls that are easy to access and the town is quaint with some neat shops!
My husband and I are actually moving to Asheville in a month! We are very excited and have been down twice now and basically ate and drank our way through. A breakfast spot that’s a must is Sunny Point Cafe!! It’s soo good and was featured on GMA and other places. You have to get there early but it’s kid friendly and they have seating indoors and outdoors. If you are looking for the cutest donut shop ever, go to HOLE. The donuts are made to order so you can sit and watch them make your donuts from scratch. Not a big menu but oh so good. You can’t go wrong with a brewery down there either. Asheville Brewing Company…the one on Coxe Ave, has a big outdoor area and kids are always running around. Wicked Weed is also another favorite. Have fun!
If you have not been to the Biltmore Estate, I think it is a must. The architecture and grounds are amazing…not to mention the free wine tasting at the vineyard and delicious restaurants on property!
Asheville: go to TUPELO HONEY cafe! I have many friends that live in Asheville that I visit, and this is the one restaurant they all suggested, in unison! I’ve eaten there multiple times, and they have a (country and world famous) sweet potato pancake that will knock your socks off! It’s not just a plain old pancake, it also comes with special pecans/nuts on top, and a special sweet butter. They also have creative side dishes (like an au gratin cauliflower side that’s really good). One time I went there, ate at the bar, and I made a meal out of all sides. 🙂 Because it’s so popular, it can be hard to get into sometimes, though, but even then, it’s in a (quaint, small) downtown Asheville, and there are tons of shops to see on the street and in the surrounding (walkable) area. Super cute area! So even if you don’t go to the restaurant, go to the little area where the restaurant is located. So much to see!
Love this post! Super excited that you’re making up a mailing list and sending out a newsletter! Excited about your e-book too.
I’ve got to second a few recommendations! Tupelo Honey is a must. They now have several locations so anytime we travel and there is one, we go! Also Sunny Point Cafe is an awesome breakfast spot, but do know the line/wait can get long if you go too late. My husband and I got up to be there within the 30 minutes they opened.
2 dessert/coffee places: (not sure if they are still there) but a Gelato and chocolate shop from Black Mountain. Also, Broad Street Coffee shop had the most amazing chocolate cake!
Look at the restaurants schedule. There were a few places we wanted to try, but due to their schedules we missed out.
We hike a lot when there. My husband found trails at the DuPont nature area that had beautiful waterfalls!
Over Easy Cafe for brunch and Corner Kitchen!
As a fellow ice cream lover like you and Ryan, I totall recommend checking out The Hop and the Ultimate Ice Cream Company while you are in Asheville! SO GOOD! Also, when my family and I went to Asheville last year for Christmas, we all absolutely LOVED the White Duck Taco Shop, so definitely go there as well!!!! Can’t wait to read all about your Asheville vacation!!
Chase is so cute and as a longtime blog reader, it has been so fun to read/watch you transition into your new role as a mom! You are such a wonderful mom and look wonderful doing it, too! If you ever are back in the Gainesville area and need a babysitter, hit me up! 🙂
Rhubarb and Plant (vegan) are our two favorite restaurants in downtown Asheville. All Souls Pizza (River Arts District) is excellent, too. Don’t miss Wicked Weed Brewing (downtown). The beer, food, and atmosphere are all great! Dobra Tea Room (also downtown) is worth checking out. They offer a formal tea service with a book of loose tea to choose from!
I almost forgot cocktails (or pre-dinner drinks) at the SkyBar. Best 180-degree mountain views from downtown. Also consider drinks/dinner at the Grove Park Inn (just north of the city). They have breathtaking views as well.
My husband and I recently purchased land in Weaverville, NC (just north of Asheville) and look forward to calling it home. Well Bred Bakery (they have a few locations) in downtown Weaverville is going to be dangerous once we move there! 😉
A few other things we’ve done there and loved. A yoga class at Asheville Yoga Center (they have about a dozen different classes a day!). Nearby hiking in Catawba Falls. Nearby hiking in Reems Creek (Rattlesnake Lodge) area. Black Mountain (25 minutes east of city) is a cute little town with shops and restaurants. I could go on and on!
Enjoy your trip!
Hi Julie! I’m an Asheville resident!! Tupelo Honey Cafe is awesome to eat at and Farm Burger. For a bit of a drive(40 mins) you can go into Brevard for beautiful hiking with all of the waterfalls AND one of my good friends owns a barbecue restaurant called “Magpie Meat and Three”. It’s AMAZING! Get the carrot ginger soup for sure. I always get the chicken, coleslaw and mac n cheese. The buttermilk pie is to die for! Plus they source lots of local products. It’s a beautiful restaurant, they are closed Sunday and Monday.
I’m excited you’ll be visiting Asheville! I’ve been living in Asheville for about a year now and it’s definitely a cool place! I’ve seen several people reccomend White Duck Taco – it’s so good! And I second the person who suggested Farm Burger. They’re the best burgers ever! And if you like southern comfort food, Rocky’s Hot Chicken Shack is awesome! As for hiking, there are many beautiful stops along the Blue Ridge Parkway. One of my favorite short and easy hikes is Craggy Pinnacle Trail. The view at the top is unbelievable!
awe……I am sure that is the sweetest babble I love you ever!!!! Melts my heart!
My little just started reaching for me and giving me slobbery kisses and it gets me every time!
So sweet that Chase is saying his version of I love you!! I’ll never forget the first time my niece told me she loved me in her little baby way…heart melted!
So great about your vacation, I’ll be taking a family vacation in OBX in a couple of weeks, so excited! This week I’m loving pumpkin spice peanut butter!