Lately and Weekend Links

I've been so bad about blogging but I'm trying to do better. I decided that I'm no longer going to use my photography blog and will use this one for personal blogging AND my business site (Shayla J. Photography) once I have my official photography website set-up. (Coming soon!)

Just to catch you up on what's been going on, we've now been married for almost 4 months and life is grand. For starters, the husband recently got a new job opportunity! He wasn't actively seeking something new but it came at just the right time and it's been a huge blessing for our family. Also, we're planning on buying our first home together next year so we're starting to make preparations for that. And, I celebrated my 30th birthday (again :) ) last week and my husband threw me a surprise dinner with all of our friends that was pretty amazing! Lots more has been going on and I'll blog about some of it soon but that should get you caught up for now.

Here's some weekend links for you! I hope this past week has been a good one for you too!

- It's been a month since kids have been back in school and in case you're stuck in a rut with your kids lunches, here are a few simple ideas.

- Facts that will make you want to travel.

- 8 ways to stay cold-free this Fall.

- 3 ways to redesign your life: shedding the excess.

- Cut out back for those that dare!

- A prepster look for toddler boy.

- Homemade french toast sticks. YUM! 

- Make-up is crazy! Check out these before & after photos! WOW!

- 5 benefits of Witch Hazel.

- Pumpkin cocktails that will have you ready for Fall! Yum!

Here's to a wonderful weekend!

Healthy Breakfast Idea - Pumpkin Breakfast Quinoa

Now that I eat healthier I find myself making my meals more and trying out new recipes. I've still yet to try Quinoa but I like the thought of having it with something sweet rather than something savory. 

How's this for an autumn-inspired morning meal?!? 

**PUMPKIN BREAKFAST QUINOA**

Serves Two

Ingredients:

1/2 cup quinoa

1 cup milk (I used 2 percent)

1 very ripe banana, mashed

1/2 cup canned pumpkin

1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

2 egg whites

1 scoop vanilla protein powder (optional)

Directions:

• Combine quinoa, milk, mashed banana and egg whites in a pan on medium heat.
• Increase heat to medium high and, stirring constantly, allowing mixture to thicken (approximately 10 – 15 minutes)
• Fluff quinoa, reduce heat to low and slowly stir in pumpkin and pumpkin pie spice
• Add protein powder and an additional splash of milk if needed
• Divide quinoa into two bowls and enjoy

Shopping Dairies: Target Haul

On my way home from work yesterday I made a quick pit stop off at Target to see what kind of goodies I could find. I recently got a gift card from there and I ended up hitting the jackpot!

I scored each of these picture frames for $1.78 each. 

I got a new beach towel for $4.88 and a set of 5 washcloths for $6.98. For some reason our forks and washcloths seem to disappear all the time. The color doesn't match any theme in the house, I just got'em for now. I'm not sure of the color that we'll have for the bathrooms once we move into our new home next year but these will do for now. 

For $5.98, I got 2 pairs of earrings for moi and some candles for the house that were only $1.18!

I lucked up on these sheets for my son that were only $8.98. At first, I'd found a set that were $12.98 the only difference was the pattern. Plus I liked these better!

I hooked myself up with some new lounge wear, getting a new v-neck (my favorite) for $7.00 and some fleece shorts for $4.48. 

I got all of this plus some deodorant and a kit-kat all for $48 and some change!! Whoop, whoop! It pays to hit those end caps and search the clearance racks in Target. 

Happy Shopping!!

Have you found any good deals at Target lately?